US Senators Push Hungary on NATO Vote Amid Democratic Backsliding

U.S. House of Representatives elect Mike Johnson Speaker of the House at the U.S. Capitol in Washington

In a developing bipartisan effort, U.S. Senators Jeanne Shaheen and Thom Tillis have introduced a resolution to Congress aimed at condemning Hungary's democratic regression and urging the country's nationalist government to remove its blockade on Sweden's bid to join NATO. The resolution, a response to Hungary's prolonged delay in ratifying Sweden's NATO membership, underscores the critical role Hungary can play in fostering European and trans-Atlantic security.

The resolution notes the unanimous approval required from all NATO members for a new ally to join the alliance, emphasizing that Hungary's stand as the sole dissenting voice among the 31 member states in supporting Sweden's accession could jeopardize trans-Atlantic security during a pivotal moment for peace and stability in Europe. Despite Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán expressing his personal support for Sweden's NATO membership, internal divisions within his party have impeded progress, citing concerns over purported misinformation from Swedish officials regarding Hungary's democratic state.

Criticism within the resolution also extends to Orbán's close ties with Russia and China, contrasting Hungary's accommodation of Ukrainian refugees with its resistance to European Union sanctions against Russia. The resolution highlights priorities among NATO members to expand the alliance amidst Russia's aggression in Ukraine, urging Hungary to align with its allies in addressing common security challenges.

Budapest under pressure to approve Sweden's NATO bid amid increasing international scrutiny.

Bipartisan U.S. Senate resolution condemns Hungary's democratic backsliding and delays in NATO accession.

Hungary's delay jeopardizes trans-Atlantic security; only NATO member yet to back Sweden's accession.

Orbán's leadership in Hungary has faced scrutiny for sidestepping democratic norms, with the resolution condemning emergency powers that enabled the government to bypass parliamentary protocols, restricting media freedom, and attempting to suppress dissenting voices. The resolution reflects mounting impatience among Hungary's allies, as bipartisan U.S. lawmakers plan a strategic visit to Budapest to engage on pivotal NATO and Hungarian interests.

In a public address, Orbán indicated progress toward approving Sweden's NATO membership, hinting at a resolution to the longstanding dispute. The resolution represents a notable push from U.S. lawmakers to hold Hungary accountable for its commitment to democratic values and collective security within the trans-Atlantic community. Orbán's pledge to address the delay in ratifying Sweden's NATO bid may signal a pivotal shift in Hungary's stance, reinforcing the importance of upholding democratic principles and fostering cohesion within the NATO alliance.