Budapest: United States Secretary of State Marco Rubio said President Donald Trump is strongly committed to the success of Hungarian Prime minister Viktor Orbán, highlighting growing political and strategic ties between Washington and Budapest.
Speaking during a visit to Hungary, Rubio described relations between the two countries as entering a new phase of cooperation. He said the Trump administration sees Hungary as an important partner in Central Europe and views Orbán’s leadership as aligned with American interests.
Rubio’s visit comes ahead of Hungary’s parliamentary elections scheduled for April, a vote widely seen as a major test for Orbán after more than a decade in power. Analysts say the visit signals political support at a sensitive moment.
The talks focused on strengthening cooperation in energy, security and economic investment. The two countries are also advancing a civilian nuclear partnership that could include small modular reactors and fuel supply arrangements. The initiative is seen as part of broader efforts to diversify energy sources in Central Europe and reduce dependence on Russian supplies.
Orbán has built close relations with Trump and is admired by many conservative leaders for his strict immigration policies and emphasis on Christian values. At the same time, his government has faced criticism from the European Union over democratic standards and has maintained ties with Russia while taking a cautious approach to the war in Ukraine.
Rubio acknowledged concerns about Hungary’s relations with Moscow and Beijing but said nations act in their own interests and cooperation between Washington and Budapest remains strong.
Hungary’s upcoming election is being closely watched across Europe, where the direction of nationalist and conservative politics continues to shape regional debates. European Union institutions are managing relations with Budapest carefully as disputes over rule of law issues and funding continue.
Rubio’s stop in Budapest is part of a wider diplomatic outreach in Central Europe following his participation in the Munich Security Conference, as the United States seeks to strengthen ties with regional partners.