UN Race: Trump Team Backs Orbán
Washington is pitching the former Hungarian leader as a joint candidate with Moscow and Beijing to secure his election.
By Nikolai Morales ·
The Trump administration is actively promoting former Hungarian prime minister Viktor Orbán for the role of United Nations secretary-general. A Wall Street Journal report reveals that White House officials suggested the candidacy to Orbán, hoping to secure backing from both Russia and China.
US diplomats view the move as a strategic necessity. One State Department official described the prospect as initially odd but noted that previous discussions suggest Russia and China are receptive. The plan relies on a joint candidacy that would satisfy the two non-Western powers while aligning with American interests.
The administration counts on a strong voting bloc in the Security Council. A State Department representative indicated that eight of the 15 council members are likely to support Orbán comfortably. Officials believe they can secure additional votes to reach a decisive majority. When the US, Russia, and China align on a goal, the report notes they usually achieve it.
Domestic political alignment drives the choice. One American official labeled Orbán the ideal conservative candidate. His record of clashing with liberal non-governmental organizations and left-leaning courts fits the current administration's priorities. His pro-China stance has not hurt his image as a defender of Western civilization, according to the report.
The campaign is being timed for political advantage. President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance are expected to support the bid. However, sources say the formal announcement is being held until after the US midterm elections. American officials have already contacted Orbán to gauge his interest, and he has shown a positive inclination with some caveats.
Critics argue Orbán differs from typical candidates. A representative from another country described other contenders as bureaucratic diplomats, while Orbán would act as a general. The State Department agreed, noting he knows how to exercise power under hostile conditions and will not be intimidated by the UN establishment.
The bid comes amid calls for UN reform. Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez recently urged stronger accountability mechanisms to stop governments from undermining international rules. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan and German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul have also called for changes to the Security Council, including removing veto powers that block decision-making.
Source: Ukrainska Pravda