Viktor Orban to Visit Poland: A Meeting with Kaczyński Scheduled

Viktor Orban is set to visit Poland for a meeting with Law and Justice (PiS) leader Jarosław Kaczyński, as the Hungarian politician seeks new alliances across Europe following recent electoral shifts.

Historical Alliances and Shifting Views on Ukraine

The Law and Justice party and its members were long considered among Orban’s closest allies in Europe. However, they were divided by their perspectives on Russia and Ukraine; while PiS supported broad assistance for Kyiv, Orban maintained contact with Vladimir Putin and hindered several European Union initiatives aimed at backing Ukraine.

Due to controversies surrounding President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s decision to name a Ukrainian military unit after the “Heroes of the UPA,” PiS has recently adopted a more critical stance toward Ukraine. While the agenda remains unconfirmed, it is highly likely that the topic of Ukraine will be discussed during the meeting.

Orban’s Political Rebuilding

Following Fidesz’s parliamentary election loss in April, which ended Orban’s 16-year tenure, he has sought to regain international influence. As Fidesz now operates as the primary opposition to Peter Magyar’s Tisza party, Orban is actively looking for new allies in other European nations.

Several weeks ago, the former Hungarian leader participated in a Brussels meeting of the “Patriots for Europe,” a far-right movement he helped initiate. This effort to consolidate nationalist and conservative forces coincides with significant domestic political challenges.

The “Lex Orban” Barrier

In June, Hungarian President Tamas Sulyok signed a constitutional amendment that prevents the former prime minister from returning to office. Known as “lex Orban,” the regulation limits the term of the head of government to eight years, or two terms.

In his justification, Sulyok noted that this regulation is virtually unique in Europe and the world, while acknowledging that it limits the will of the voters.