Foreign Policy

published : 2023-09-24

Hungarian Foreign Minister Urges Return of Trump, Slams Biden Admin's 'Lecturing'

Hungary's Relationship with the U.S. Deteriorates under Biden Administration

A photo of Hungarian Foreign Minister Péter Szijjártó during a press conference, taken with a Nikon D850.

The Hungarian foreign minister, Péter Szijjártó, has expressed his country's hope for the return of former President Donald Trump to the White House. According to Szijjártó, the relationship between Hungary and the U.S. has deteriorated due to what he perceives as the Biden administration's 'lecturing' and interference in policy.

During an interview with Fox News Digital, Szijjártó highlighted the strong relationship Hungary had with the U.S. during the Trump administration. He attributed this to mutual respect and a focus on developing both nations for mutual benefit. However, he believes that the Biden administration has sought to interfere in domestic issues, including terminating a bilateral tax agreement and restricting visa-free travel for Hungarian passport holders.

A photo of former President Donald Trump and Prime Minister Viktor Orbán shaking hands at the White House, taken with a Canon EOS-1D X Mark III.

Szijjártó criticized the Biden administration for trying to pressure Hungary into changing its policies, stating that such interference is unacceptable. He highlighted the lack of mutual respect that existed during the Trump era and suggested that political factors are at play. Some speculate that the presence of a conservative, right-wing government in Hungary for an extended period of time might be discomforting for liberal forces globally.

One specific disagreement mentioned by Szijjártó is regarding the war in Ukraine. Hungary has concerns over the conscription of ethnic Hungarians living in Ukraine and opposes the delivery of weapons to prolong the conflict. Szijjártó believes that President Trump's approach to bringing peace to the region would be more favorable compared to the current administration's support for Ukraine.

A photo of ethnic Hungarians in Ukraine protesting against conscriptions, taken with a Sony Alpha a7 III.

Despite these issues, Szijjártó emphasized that Hungary does not interfere in domestic politics, but rather hopes for a return to the strong relationship it had with the United States during the Trump years. He concluded by indicating Hungary's belief that peace in the region is achievable with American involvement, and expressed support for President Trump's potential return to the White House in 2024.