Orban Endorses Trump's Security Shift, Acknowledges Europe’s Decline

Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban has expressed strong endorsement of the National Security Strategy unveiled by U.S. President Donald Trump’s administration. In a post on X Thursday, Orban stated that the document illustrates a clear awareness from the United States regarding what he terms Europe’s "civilisation-scale decline." His admiration is particularly pronounced at a time when many in Europe have reacted with surprise and concern.

A Strategy That Shook Europe but Pleased Orban

The strategy, released last week, delineates the U.S. perspective on global threats and anticipated partnerships. It warns of the risk of "civilizational erasure" for Europe and emphasizes the need for a directional shift. While various European leaders have reacted with alarm or criticism, Orban has lauded the strategy as "the most significant and intriguing document of recent years."

For Orban, this strategy endorses his long-held view that Europe is undergoing critical challenges, particularly affecting its economy, values, and political integrity.

Orban’s Argument: Europe Has Hit an ‘Economic Dead End’

According to Orban, the U.S. document indicates that Washington now perceives Europe similarly to his own assessments. He contends that the continent's economy is faltering, its democratic frameworks are under pressure, and the free-market model is underperforming.

Orban frequently contests the European Union’s direction, accusing its leadership of overlooking critical social and economic challenges. His administration advocates for a nationalistic strategy, arguing that Europe must defend its identity and reconsider its alliances.

A Call for Rebuilding Ties With Russia

Another key aspect of the strategy that Orban emphasized is the recommendation for Europe to restore its strategic relationship with Russia, which sharply contrasts with the stance of many European governments that favor sanctions against Moscow due to the Ukraine conflict.

Orban, however, has maintained robust ties with the Kremlin, frequently criticizing EU sanctions for harming European economies more than they affect Russia. His support for reconnecting with Moscow aligns with his established foreign policy principles.

A Leader Who Often Stands Apart in Europe

Orban’s remarks once again illustrate his willingness to align with Trump’s worldview. He indicated that America has come to recognize the decline "we in Hungary have been battling for fifteen years." For Orban, Trump’s strategy signifies that Hungary’s criticisms of Europe's direction are no longer isolated.

Last month, Hungary secured a one-year exemption from U.S. sanctions regarding Russian oil and gas, following what has been described as a cordial meeting between Orban and Trump in Washington. This exemption reinforces Orban’s claim that his close rapport with the U.S. president yields benefits for Hungary.

A Growing Divide in Europe

While Orban celebrates this strategy, numerous European leaders harbor concerns. They worry it could weaken the transatlantic alliance and heighten tensions within Europe, especially among countries wishing to maintain a firm alignment with the United States and those, like Hungary, that are in favor of re-establishing ties with Russia.

As time unfolds, it will be revealed whether Trump’s framework results in tangible changes in U.S.-Europe relations, or if it ultimately remains a mere political declaration. For now, however, Orban has made it evident that he perceives the document as a pivotal moment—one that supports the course he has chosen for Hungary.