GOP Senators Challenge Hungary’s Relations with Russia

Five Republican senators have expressed significant concerns regarding Hungary’s relationships with Russia and China as the war in Ukraine approaches its third anniversary. In a joint statement released on Friday, the senators highlighted their unease about Hungary’s increasingly strong ties to Russia and the declining state of its democratic institutions. They emphasized, “Many of our congressional colleagues share our growing concern over Hungary’s deepening connection with Russia and continue to ignore the apprehensions raised by allies about its relationship with China.” They further urged Hungary to heed the voices of its partners and take action to address these concerns.

The GOP delegation, which included Senators Jerry Moran from Kansas, John Boozman from Arizona, Susan Collins from Maine, John Cornyn from Texas, and John Hoeven from North Dakota, had recently visited Hungary. This visit took place amid a backdrop of former President Donald Trump’s favorable remarks about Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, whom he referred to as a “strongman” during the recent presidential debate against Vice President Kamala Harris. Orbán, known for promoting an “illiberal democracy” with strict immigration regulations and conservative LGBTQ+ policies, has garnered attention from American conservatives, including Trump.

Despite Trump’s support, Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell has expressed apprehension about Hungary’s evolving relationship with Russia. Notably, Orbán has previously praised Trump, labeling him a “man of peace,” and their relationship has been highlighted by meetings, including one at Trump’s Mar-a-Lago estate after the NATO summit. This dialogue revolved around strategies related to Russia’s ongoing conflict in Ukraine.

As the political landscape shifts, these discussions about Hungary’s alliances reveal the complex dynamics in international relations and how they intersect with domestic politics in the United States.