Katya Adler: Jubilation in Budapest will be felt in Europe but leaves Moscow cold

Katya Adler: Jubilation in Budapest will be felt in Europe but leaves Moscow cold

Budapest’s historic Chain Bridge, which connects the city’s two distinct halves—Buda and Pest—across the Danube, has long been a symbol of unity. Its lights, usually casting a soft glow over the river, transformed Sunday night into a vivid display of green, white, and red. This shift marked a pivotal moment, as the bridge became a backdrop for the celebration of a political change that ended Viktor Orbán’s 16-year rule. The colors of the Hungarian flag illuminated the scene, signaling a new era for the nation.

Supporters of Péter Magyar, the leader of the Tisza party, expressed overwhelming emotion. “We did it,” Magyar declared in his victory speech, “We brought down the Orbán regime—gether we liberated Hungary. We took back our homeland! Thank you! Thank you all!” His words echoed through the city, where crowds of first-time voters danced in the early hours of Monday, fueled by a mix of optimism and disbelief.

“I cried when I put the X on my ballot paper,” Zofia shared. “I still can’t quite believe we did it. But we did!”

Historically, the Chain Bridge was a focal point during Hungary’s 1956 anti-communist uprising. The slogan “Russians Go Home!” once rallied protesters against Soviet influence. Now, it resurfaced in a different context, as Orbán’s policies—rooted in an alliance with Russia—faced criticism. His campaign posters had warned of a looming war in Ukraine, framing him as a guardian against external threats. Yet, the voters’ choice cast doubt on that narrative.

Orbán’s influence on the electoral system, designed to bolster his party’s dominance, proved insufficient. Despite his control over state media and the power of his family network, the results were decisive. The record voter turnout underscored a collective desire for change. Magyar’s victory was seen as reclaiming Hungary’s sovereignty, a sentiment that resonated deeply with those who felt their country had drifted from its democratic roots.

The implications extend beyond Hungary. For Moscow, Orbán’s downfall is a setback. His support for Russia during the Ukraine conflict, including delaying sanctions and blocking a €90bn EU loan to Kyiv, had aligned Hungary with Vladimir Putin’s agenda. Zelensky swiftly acknowledged the shift, tweeting that he looked forward to “constructive work” with Magyar. While the tone was measured, it signaled a realignment in European politics.

UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer hailed the outcome as a milestone for European democracy, while Ursula von der Leyen, the European Commission president, called Hungary’s choice a step toward unity with the EU. In contrast, Donald Trump remained unenthusiastic. The loss of Orbán, his closest European ally, threatened his influence in the bloc. Trump had once praised Orbán’s stance on the Iran war and his pro-Russian policies, but now the political tide had turned.

Magyar’s cautious approach to governing is expected. He may not reverse Orbán’s decision to withhold military aid to Ukraine, fearing backlash from voters. However, he has pledged to support the €90bn loan, a move that could ease tensions with Brussels. Analysts note that Orbán’s ousting reflects a broader trend, yet some remain skeptical. While Marine Le Pen’s National Rally underperformed in French local elections, the shift in Hungary suggests a possible plateau for populist movements across Europe.