Trump pushes Orban for UN chief with Russia and China backing

US President Donald Trump is actively promoting former Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban as a candidate for United Nations Secretary-General, with potential backing from Russia and China. US officials contacted Orban to gauge his interest in the role. Orban expressed receptiveness to the offer but has not yet made a final decision. He cited reservations about his identity as a nationalist politician and a reluctance to announce a run unless he is confident of winning.

Washington believes a joint endorsement from the US, Russia, and China would secure the necessary support in the UN Security Council. A State Department official estimated that eight of the 15 council members would easily back Orban, with the possibility of reaching ten votes. The official acknowledged the proposal initially seemed far-fetched but argued that Orban’s ideological alignment with MAGA conservatives makes him a strong contender. Orban has long opposed large-scale immigration and liberal non-governmental organizations while clashing with the European Union.

The candidacy would mark a shift from the current pool of candidates, who largely possess backgrounds in international bureaucracy or behind-the-scenes diplomacy. One official from another country noted that Orban would bring the approach of a political leader accustomed to exercising power. US officials argue he knows how to navigate opposition and would not be intimidated by the UN establishment. However, his close ties to Moscow and Beijing, along with domestic controversies in Hungary, are expected to draw scrutiny. Critics worry his appointment could turn the Secretary-General into a defender of authoritarian leaders, including Russian President Vladimir Putin.

Key variables include the response from the United Kingdom and France, both permanent Security Council members with veto power. The report suggests London and Paris might refrain from blocking a candidate backed by a majority of the council and the other three permanent members, though neither capital has taken an official position. Trump endorsed Orban during Hungary’s April elections, and Vice President JD Vance also campaigned on his behalf. Both are expected to support Orban in the race if he decides to run.

Any formal announcement of Orban’s entry is expected to be delayed until after the US midterm elections. In the meantime, other candidates are advancing. Emirati diplomat Lana Nusseibeh entered the race last week and is expected to answer questions on Tuesday. A Security Council straw poll is scheduled for Wednesday to gauge support for the various candidates. It remains unclear if Orban’s name will be included in that informal vote. Current Secretary-General Antonio Guterres serves until December 31.