Trump reportedly backs Orban for UN chief amid push for tripartite support

Donald Trump is pushing former Hungarian prime minister Viktor Orban for United Nations secretary-general, a move that could secure backing from the United States, Russia, and China. Sources from three countries told The Jerusalem Post that American officials have already approached Orban to enter the race. He has expressed interest but has not yet made a final decision.

US State Department officials estimate that eight of the council's 15 members would easily support Orban, with the potential to reach ten votes. A State Department official described Orban as the dream candidate for MAGA conservatives, citing his opposition to large-scale immigration and liberal nongovernmental organizations. The official noted that Orban would not be intimidated by the UN establishment and possesses the right ideological outlook.

The plan relies on the assumption that when Washington, Moscow, and Beijing agree on a Security Council outcome, they can generally secure it. However, the report noted that neither the UK nor France, both permanent members with veto power, has taken an official stance. Officials suggested that London and Paris might not block a candidate supported by a council majority and the other three permanent members.

Orban’s name arose repeatedly in US discussions about the next secretary-general, with counterparts in China and Russia agreeing to seek someone like him. He voiced reservations tied to his identity as a nationalist politician and reportedly refused to announce a bid unless confident of winning. He declined to comment on the report. Trump endorsed Orban in Hungary's April elections, and Vice President JD Vance also campaigned on his behalf.

Another source said Trump and Vance are expected to back Orban if he runs, with any announcement likely to wait until after the US midterm elections. An official from another country contrasted Orban with the current field, which consists mostly of international bureaucrats and quiet diplomats. They argued that Orban would bring the approach of a political leader used to wielding power.

Concerns remain that Orban's 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 scrutiny. Emirati diplomat Lana Nusseibeh entered the race last week and is reportedly gaining momentum. She is expected to answer questions on Tuesday, ahead of a Security Council straw poll on Wednesday.

The informal vote is meant to gauge support as members work toward consensus. It is unclear whether Orban's name will appear in the poll, and more candidates could still enter. Antonio Guterres's term ends on December 31. For now, the push for Orban rests on discussions and assessments from cited sources, with no official announcement of a candidacy or public confirmation of tripartite support.