European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen cheered Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban‘s election loss on Sunday, a defeat that marked the end of a 16-year reign for the EU critic.
Opposition leader Peter Magyar’s Tisza party defeated Orban’s ruling Fidesz 53% to 37% in the country’s parliamentary election. Orban called the loss “painful,” but pledged to “serve the Hungarian nation and our homeland from opposition as well.”
The results were celebrated by Europe minutes after they came down.
“Hungary has chosen Europe. Europe has always chosen Hungary. A country returns to its European path. The Union grows stronger,” von der Leyen posted on X. “Europe’s heart is beating stronger in Hungary tonight.”
European Council President Antonio Costa also cheered Magyar’s win, saying it “shows the democratic spirit of the Hungarian people.”
They have spoken — and their will is clear,” Costa posted on X. I look forward to working closely with [Peter Magyar] to make Europe stronger and more prosperous.”
European People’s Party leader Manfred Weber hailed the results as well, calling it a “victory” for Hungarians.
“Hungary is back at the heart of Europe,” Weber posted on X.
The rejoicing from top European officials is hardly surprising.
Orban was a thorn in the EU’s side, frequently issuing vetoes on Ukraine funding due to his close ties with Russian President Vladimir Putin.
Magyar presents a much different alternative now, with him pledging to restore Hungary’s relationships with the EU.
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Orban’s defeat was more stunning due to significant involvement from the United States — and all to no avail.
That saw near-constant endorsements from President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance stumping for Orban in Budapest.