Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk welcomed the Hungarian election results, forecasting “absolutely exceptional” relations with Budapest and praising a shift away from authoritarianism.
Tisza Wins Hungarian Elections
Tisza’s party is projected to secure 138 seats in the 199-member Hungarian parliament, according to preliminary data from the National Election Office (NVI) after counting nearly 99% of the votes.
Tusk Comments on Election Results
Donald Tusk, speaking from Seoul, stated he was pleased that Hungary demonstrated it is “not doomed to authoritarian rule.” He assessed that relations between Poland and the new government in Budapest would be “absolutely exceptional.”
Conversation with Peter Magyar
Premier Tusk informed reporters he spoke with the leader of the opposition Tisza party, Peter Magyar, congratulating him on his electoral victory. He noted that Magyar indicated Warsaw as his first visit destination, and anticipates a uniquely strong relationship.
Shift Away From Authoritarianism in Central Europe
Tusk expressed relief at a trend away from “authoritarian, corrupt regimes,” citing Warsaw, Bucharest, Chișinău, and now Budapest. He stated the Orbán government had unfortunately become such a regime after many years in power.
Orbán’s Obstruction of Ukraine Aid
Premier Tusk recalled that Orbán’s government had blocked EU loans for Ukraine, suggesting Magyar’s victory would be a breakthrough and have practical consequences for Kyiv.
Discussion of Ziobro and Romanowski
Asked if he discussed former PiS politicians Zbigniew Ziobro and Marcin Romanowski – granted asylum in Hungary by the Orbán government – with Magyar, Tusk revealed he had raised the issue before the election. He expressed hope to welcome them back to Poland.
Opposition to Magyar’s Victory
Tusk stated that “all possible forces, including President Karol Nawrocki and PiS leader Jarosław Kaczyński” had conspired against Magyar and his party.
