Orban Weighs UN Bid After White House Push

Washington is urging Viktor Orban to run for United Nations secretary-general.

American officials approached the former Hungarian prime minister to encourage his entry into the race.

Orban has expressed interest but has not made a final decision.

State Department officials estimate Orban could secure support from eight of the council's 15 members.

The official suggested he might reach a total of ten votes.

This projection relies on the assumption that Russia and China will also back his candidacy.

Sources from three countries indicate that Washington, Moscow, and Beijing generally agree on Security Council outcomes when they align.

A US State Department official described Orban as the dream candidate for MAGA conservatives.

The official cited Orban's opposition to large-scale immigration and liberal nongovernmental organizations.

He also pointed to Orban's stance against established centers of power in Hungary's judiciary and media.

Orban repeatedly clashed with the European Union during his tenure while building closer ties with China.

Trump endorsed Orban in Hungary's April elections, and Vice President JD Vance campaigned on his behalf in that contest as well. Another source said both Trump and Vance are expected to support Orban if he runs. Any public announcement would likely wait until after the US midterm elections. Orban voiced reservations about the bid because of his identity as a nationalist politician. He also said he would not announce a candidacy unless he was confident of winning. The positions of the UK and France remain a key question. Both are permanent members with veto power. The report suggested they might not block a candidate backed by a council majority and the other three permanent members. Neither London nor Paris has taken an official stance. Orban would differ from the current field of candidates. Most current contenders come from international bureaucracy or quiet diplomacy. An official from another country said Orban would bring the approach of a political leader used to wielding power. The US official agreed, stating Orban has the right ideological outlook and knows how to handle opposition. The report also raised concerns that his appointment could turn the post into a defender of authoritarian leaders. His ties to Moscow and Beijing would likely face scrutiny. Emirati diplomat Lana Nusseibeh is a declared candidate. She entered the race last week and is reportedly gaining momentum. She is expected to answer questions on Tuesday. A Security Council straw poll will take place on Wednesday. The informal vote is meant to gauge support as members work toward consensus. It is unclear if Orban's name will appear in that vote. Antonio Guterres's term ends on December 31. There has been no official announcement of Orban's candidacy. No public confirmation exists that the three powers will support him.