Hungarian President Viktor Orban endorsed former President Donald Trump over President Joe Biden this week, citing their close relationship and saying that the world would benefit from a second Trump term. The Hungarian leader has hosted a number of prominent Republicans, including a branch of the Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC).
The endorsement came during a meeting between the two leaders at Trump’s Mar-a-Lago estate. Trump’s campaign described the event as discussing a “wide range of issues affecting Hungary and the United States, including the paramount importance of strong and secure borders to protect the sovereignty of each nation.”
The Hungarian president said that it was “up to Americans to make their own decision, and it is up to us Hungarians to frankly admit it would be better for the world and better for Hungary too, if President Donald Trump were to return to power.”
“There would be no war today if he were still President of the United States,” said Orban.
On social media, Orban said that the former president “commanded respect in the world, and created the conditions for peace. During his presidency, there was peace in the Middle East and peace in Ukraine.”
“We need him back more than ever! Thank you for the invitation, Mr. President!” wrote Orban.
President @realDonaldTrump was a president of peace. He commanded respect in the world, and created the conditions for peace. During his presidency there was peace in the Middle East and peace in Ukraine. We need him back more than ever! Thank you for the invitation, Mr.… pic.twitter.com/4nSqwoYxMV
— Orbán Viktor (@PM_ViktorOrban) March 10, 2024
The meeting was not well received by President Joe Biden, who said that Orban stated “flatly he doesn’t think democracy works. I see a future where we defend democracy, not diminish it.”
This is not the first time that the Hungarian president issued statements of support for Trump. The two leaders worked together closely during Trump’s time in office.
Furthermore, when Trump was indicted on multiple criminal charges, Orban issued a statement of support.
“Keep on fighting, Mr President! We are with you,” he wrote on social media, posting a photo of the two shaking hands.
CPAC is planning to hold another conference in Hungary next month. Orban gave the keynote address at last year’s conference, which was well-received by the conference attendees.
