How Ukraine Is Upending European Politics
AtlanticMAY 2022
The re-election of Hungary's authoritarian leader, who is pioneering a form of illiberal democracy, comes at the worst possible time for Europe. Orban is pro-Putin and pro-Russia, and even went so far as to condemn Ukrainian president Zelenskyy for not supporting him during his victory speech. He is being celebrated by authoritarian-minded people around the world.
This election was about Hungary - not Russia, Ukraine, or Europe. Orban's clear victory will send a strong message to the European Commission; he stood up for Hungary's independence and freedom, as well as its peace and security. In the referendum, the voters rejected foreign meddling by Brussels, Washington and the international left, and stood up to protect the Hungarian youth and families.