European leaders have welcomed the reported victory of opposition figure Peter Magyar in Hungary’s parliamentary elections, describing the outcome as a historic moment that could reshape both national politics and the country’s relationship with the wider European community.
According to unofficial results released on Sunday, Magyar’s emergence as the leading political force marks a significant shift in Hungary’s political landscape, ending a prolonged period dominated by Prime Minister Viktor Orban. While final results are still being confirmed, early reactions from across Europe suggest strong support for the apparent change in leadership.
French President Emmanuel Macron was among the first to respond, revealing that he had personally spoken with Magyar to offer his congratulations. Macron framed the election outcome as a clear endorsement of European ideals by the Hungarian electorate.
“France welcomes the victory of democratic participation, the Hungarian people’s commitment to European Union values, and Hungary’s European engagement,” he said, emphasizing the importance of unity within the European Union.
Macron also called for closer cooperation moving forward, highlighting shared priorities such as strengthening Europe’s sovereignty, enhancing security, and promoting economic competitiveness.
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz echoed similar sentiments, stating that the Hungarian people had made a clear democratic choice. He expressed readiness to work with the incoming leadership to advance European unity.
“Let’s join forces for a strong, secure and, above all, united Europe,” Merz said, underlining Berlin’s willingness to deepen ties with Budapest under its new political direction.
From the United Kingdom, Prime Minister Keir Starmer described the election as a “historic moment” not only for Hungary but for democratic values across Europe. He said he looked forward to building a cooperative relationship focused on mutual security and prosperity.
Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez also praised the outcome, calling it a victory for European values. “Today, Europe and European values have won,” he said, adding that he was eager to work with Magyar on advancing a shared vision for the continent’s future.
Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni offered a balanced response, congratulating Magyar on what she described as a “clear election victory” while also acknowledging the contributions of outgoing Prime Minister Viktor Orban. She expressed confidence that Italy and Hungary would continue to collaborate constructively on key regional and global challenges.
At the institutional level, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen described the result in symbolic terms, saying that “Europe’s heart is beating stronger in Hungary tonight.” Her remarks underscored the broader significance of the election for the European project.
Similarly, European Council President Antonio Costa pointed to the high voter turnout as evidence of democratic vitality. “They have spoken—and their will is clear,” he said, highlighting the importance of citizen participation in shaping political outcomes.
Beyond the European Union, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy welcomed the result and expressed readiness to strengthen bilateral relations. He stressed the importance of maintaining constructive engagement among European nations, particularly in the context of ongoing regional security challenges.
“Ukraine has always sought good-neighbourly relations with everyone in Europe,” Zelenskyy said, signaling Kyiv’s intention to work closely with Hungary’s new leadership.
Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk offered a brief but pointed reaction, writing: “Hungary, Poland, Europe—back together,” suggesting a renewed alignment among Central European states.
Leaders from Northern and Eastern Europe also voiced strong support. Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson described the outcome as a “historic victory,” while Croatian Prime Minister Andrej Plenkovic confirmed that he had spoken with Magyar and expressed optimism about future cooperation.
Estonian Prime Minister Kristen Michal characterized the election as a “historic choice” for a “free and strong Hungary in a united Europe.” Latvian Prime Minister Evika Silina and Lithuanian Prime Minister Inga Ruginiene also extended congratulations, emphasizing shared democratic values and regional collaboration.
Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Store described the result as significant for the entire continent, noting that it could strengthen efforts to promote peace, stability, and the rule of law across Europe.
Finnish Prime Minister Petteri Orpo highlighted the Hungarian electorate’s apparent commitment to remaining an active member of both the European Union and NATO, signaling continuity in key international alliances.
Dutch Prime Minister Rob Jetten said the result offered renewed hope for restoring democratic norms, the rule of law, and deeper European cooperation.
Elsewhere, Bosnia and Herzegovina’s Foreign Ministry welcomed the outcome, expressing optimism about opening a new chapter in bilateral relations with Hungary.
However, some reactions carried a more overt political tone. UK Liberal Democrat leader Ed Davey suggested the election demonstrated that “populist extremists can be defeated,” reflecting broader ideological debates within Europe.
French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot described the vote as a “historic” turning point, arguing that Hungarians had chosen to move beyond a period marked by concerns over governance and democratic standards.
Meanwhile, Magyar himself confirmed that he had received a congratulatory call from Mark Rutte, signaling early international recognition of his electoral success.
Despite the widespread congratulations, uncertainty remains over the final composition of Hungary’s parliament. It is not yet clear whether Magyar’s Tisza party will secure a two-thirds majority, a threshold that would enable sweeping constitutional and legislative reforms.
As the final results are awaited, the election is already being viewed as a defining moment for Hungary and its place within Europe, with leaders across the continent expressing hope that the outcome will usher in a new era of cooperation, stability, and democratic renewal.
