The defeat of Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán has been met with relief and cautious optimism in Brussels, where European Union leaders are hoping for a change in Hungary's political course towards a line closer to the EU.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen reacted on social media, stressing that the election result signals a return of Hungary to the European path. “Hungary has chosen Europe. Europe has always chosen Hungary. Together, we are stronger,” she declared.

The President of the European Parliament, Roberta Metsola, also congratulated opposition leader Péter Magyar on the victory, emphasizing that "the country of Hungary is at the heart of Europe."

The positive reactions from Brussels are not unexpected, as during his 16 years in power, Orbán has had frequent clashes with European institutions. Issues such as migration policies, the rule of law and support for Ukraine have been constant sources of tension, while Hungary has often used its veto to block key EU decisions.

French President Emmanuel Macron called the result a strong signal of the European orientation of Hungarian citizens. In a public reaction, he said that this is “a victory that demonstrates the Hungarian people’s attachment to the values ​​of the European Union.”

Meanwhile, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz congratulated Hungary and called for closer cooperation in the future. “Let us join forces for a strong, secure and united Europe,” he said.

On the other hand, the Prime Minister of Estonia, Kristen Michal, described the result as a historic election, emphasizing that Hungarians have voted for a stronger future within a united Europe.

The final results of the Hungarian elections are still awaiting official confirmation, but early reactions from European leaders indicate high expectations for a significant change in the country's foreign and domestic policy. Meanwhile, Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson said the elections "mark a new chapter in Hungary's history."