Orbán Receives Support from Dozen Right-Wing Leaders Ahead of Hungarian Elections

Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán is receiving public support from a dozen right-wing leaders from various countries, ahead of the upcoming Hungarian elections. This support was expressed through a joint video released online, where the leaders portray Orbán as an important factor in promoting patriotic and nationalist values in Europe. Among the leaders expressing their support are Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, Italian Deputy Prime Minister Matteo Salvini, French far-right leader Marine Le Pen, Alice Weidel from Germany, and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Despite this support, Orbán appears to be trailing in the polls. However, his campaign team is seeking to leverage the widespread recognition and influence of his supporters to boost his electoral campaign. The video is part of this effort, presenting Orbán as a leader who defends national sovereignty and the cultural roots of Europe. The leaders participating in the video emphasize the importance of preserving national identity and resisting globalization. Meloni, for example, states that supporting Orbán is supporting a Europe that respects national sovereignty, while Le Pen argues that the success of patriotic forces in Europe is due to leaders like Orbán. Netanyahu, for his part, stresses the need for strong defense and portrays Orbán as a capable leader to protect his country. The Hungarian elections are scheduled for April 12th. Orbán's government has been at the center of criticism in recent years for its efforts to restrict Pride events and put pressure on independent media and non-governmental organizations. Support from right-wing leaders may be a significant factor in Orbán's attempt to remain in power.