Reactions to PM Orban's defeat in Hungary's election

Hungary's opposition centre-right Tisza party appeared on track to win Sunday's national election, partial results showed, ending 16 years of rule by Prime Minister Viktor Orban, a nationalist backed by US President Donald Trump and Russia.

Here are some quotes from Hungarian politicians and foreign leaders on the election results.

Peter Magyar, leader of Hungary's opposition Tisza party
"As we promised, as we hoped, today, on 12 April 2026, Hungary and several million people made history again, exactly 23 years to the day after there was a referendum on joining the European Union in Hungary."

Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban
"The election results are not final yet but the situation is understandable and clear. The election result is painful for us, but clear. The responsibility and possibility of governing was not given to us. I have congratulated the winner."

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy
"Ukraine has always sought good-neighbourly relations with everyone in Europe and we are ready to advance our cooperation with Hungary. Europe and every European nation must get stronger, and millions of Europeans seek cooperation and stability. We are ready for meetings and joint constructive work for the benefit of both nations, as well as peace, security, and stability in Europe."

US House of Representatives minority leader Hakeem Jeffries, a top Democrat and opponent of President Donald Trump
"Far-right authoritarian Viktor Orbán has lost the election. Trump sycophants and MAGA extremists in Congress are up next in November. Winter is coming."

Ursula von der Leyen, president of the European Commission
"Hungary has chosen Europe. Europe has always chosen Hungary. A country reclaims its European path. The Union grows stronger.... Europe's heart is beating stronger in Hungary tonight."

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer
"This is an historic moment, not only for Hungary, but for European democracy. I look forward to working with you for the security and prosperity of both our countries."

French President Emmanuel Macron
"I've just spoken with Peter Magyar to congratulate him on his victory in Hungary! France welcomes what has been a victory in terms of people taking part in the democratic process, and a victory which shows the attachment of the Hungarian people to the values of the European Union and for Hungary's role in Europe."

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz
"The Hungarian people have decided. My heartfelt congratulations on your electoral success, dear @magyarpeterMP.

"I am looking forward to working with you. Let's join forces for a strong, secure and, above all, united Europe. Gratulálok, kedves Magyar Péter!"

Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk
"Hungary, Poland, Europe. Back together! Glorious victory, dear friends!"

Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Stoere
"I congratulate Peter Magyar and Tisza on their victory in the Hungarian parliamentary elections - a result with great importance to all of Europe. I look forward to close and constructive cooperation in pursuing peace and stability, democracy and the rule of law on our continent."

Finnish Prime Minister Petteri Orpo
"In democratic elections, the Hungarian people have demonstrated their strong will to be an active member of European Union and NATO. The election result gives Hungary the opportunity to return to our community of values and security as a constructive actor."

Estonian Prime Minister Kristen Michal
"Hungarians have made a historic choice for a free and strong Hungary in a united Europe, rejecting forces that ignore their interests. Congratulations to Peter Magyar on winning the election! I look forward to working together on what unites Estonia, Hungary and Europe."

Lithuanian President Gitanas Nauseda
"Big win for Hungary! Big win for Europe! Congratulations to @magyarpeterMP. There are a lot of things we could and should do for the sake of democracy, justice and peace."