Trump Pushes Orban for UN Post

US President Donald Trump is backing former Hungarian prime minister Viktor Orban for the United Nations secretary-general, according to a report citing sources from three nations. American officials approached Orban to gauge his interest, and while he has not yet made a final decision, he reportedly showed willingness to run if the odds of victory are high.

The initiative stems from earlier diplomatic talks where Washington, Moscow, and Beijing aligned on their ideal candidate. A US State Department official described Orban as a 'dream candidate for MAGA conservatives,' citing his history of opposition to large-scale immigration and liberal nongovernmental organizations. The official estimated that eight of the Security Council's 15 members would 'easily' support the former prime minister, with a possible ceiling of 10 votes.

Orban's name surfaced repeatedly during these discussions, with US counterparts seeking 'someone like Orban.' His Russian and Chinese peers reportedly agreed with that assessment. Orban, a nationalist politician, voiced reservations about the role and declined to comment on the report. He is reportedly unwilling to announce a bid unless he is confident of winning. Trump endorsed Orban in Hungary's April elections, and Vice President JD Vance campaigned for him.

The key uncertainty remains the stance of the United Kingdom and France. Both hold veto power on the Security Council. The report suggests they might not block a candidate supported by a council majority and the other three permanent members, but neither London nor Paris has taken an official stance. An official from another country noted that Orban would bring the approach of a political leader used to wielding power, unlike the current field of international bureaucrats.

Concerns persist that an Orban appointment could turn the post into a defender of Russian President Vladimir Putin and other authoritarian leaders. His ties to Moscow and Beijing, along with his record in Hungary, would likely face intense scrutiny. Another source familiar with the initiative said Trump and Vance are expected to back Orban if he runs, with any announcement waiting until after the US midterm elections.

The current race includes Emirati diplomat Lana Nusseibeh, who entered last week and is gaining momentum. She is expected to answer questions on Tuesday, ahead of a Security Council straw poll on Wednesday. The informal vote aims to gauge support as members work toward consensus. Antonio Guterres's term ends on December 31. More candidates could still enter the race, and it remains unclear if Orban's name will appear on the ballot.