Memory updated
Hungary takes up the rotating presidency of the Council of the E.U. on July 1, with the slogan “Make Europe Great Again,” signaling an intention to challenge E.U. allies and promote a resurgent right. Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban, aligned with Trump's political movement, views this as an opportunity to assert far-right influence across Europe. Recent far-right successes in France and Germany add to this volatile political climate.

Orban’s strained relations with the E.U. are exacerbated by his hold on financial support for Ukraine. Despite calls for suspension of Hungary's presidency due to democratic concerns, the term proceeds. Hungarian diplomats have outlined an agenda focusing on migration, competitiveness, and defense, but skepticism remains about Hungary's ability to enact significant change due to the nature of the presidency and the political timing. The next six months are expected to feature more rhetoric than substantial legislative action.

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