‘Right-wing populism suffered heavy defeat in Hungary,’ says German chancellor

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz on Monday welcomed the defeat of longtime Prime Minister Viktor Orban in Hungary’s parliamentary election, calling it a setback for “right-wing populism.”

Speaking at a news conference in Berlin, Merz congratulated Hungarian opposition leader Peter Magyar, whose Tisza party secured a landslide win -- and a two-thirds majority in parliament -- in Sunday’s vote. The result ended Orban’s 16-year tenure in office.

“This shows that our democratic societies are clearly much more resilient against Russian propaganda and other foreign interference attempts in such elections,” Merz said, referring to the support Orban received from Moscow, as well as from the Trump administration.

He described the outcome as “one of the best pieces of news” from the previous day, praising the “high degree of resilience” in a democratic society like Hungary.

“Right-wing populism suffered a heavy defeat in Hungary yesterday,” Germany’s conservative leader said. “And this doesn’t just affect Hungary. Hungary is sending a very clear signal against right-wing populism worldwide. In that respect, yesterday was a good day.”

Merz also expressed hope that the change in government would ease decision-making within the EU. He pointed out that Orban’s frequent vetoes had previously blocked unified EU positions, particularly on military and financial aid to Ukraine and tougher sanctions against Russia.

“The whole situation will be easier following Peter Magyar’s election victory yesterday,” Merz said. “We will now be able to reach joint decisions even more easily, including in the European Council. We will adopt a united stance on behalf of the European Union, including toward Russia.”