The Guardian view on special Trump treatment for Hungary: roll on the next election | Editorial

Viktor Orbán, Hungary's Prime Minister, who notably supported Donald Trump during the 2016 US presidential election, is now in a precarious position as he seeks a fifth consecutive term. With elections looming in less than six months, his Fidesz party is trailing in the polls, indicating a potential shift in public sentiment against his illiberal governance. Trump's recent gestures of support, including political favors, reflect a complex relationship that may influence the upcoming elections. As Orbán's authoritarian rule faces growing challenges, the dynamics between these two leaders underscore the broader implications for democracy in Hungary and the EU's response to rising authoritarianism. The situation is a critical moment for both Orbán and the European political landscape, as Brussels watches closely, hoping for a change in Hungary's political trajectory.