US-Hungary Nuclear Agreement: A Conservative Nexus Amid Election Countdown

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio visited Hungary for talks with PM Viktor Orbán, focusing on a civilian-nuclear cooperation agreement. Esteemed by Donald Trump, Orbán faces a tough reelection battle. The visit underscores energy diplomacy amid Hungary's EU and Russian relations, with conservative nationalism at its core.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio paid a visit to Budapest on Monday for key discussions with Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán. As the meeting took place, a civilian-nuclear cooperation agreement was set to be signed, a move ardently supported by former US President Donald Trump.

Orbán, whose Fidesz party is facing a crucial election challenge on April 12, has positioned himself as a conservative stalwart, drawing praise from Trump. Despite criticisms regarding the undermining of democratic institutions, Orbán is viewed as an exemplar of conservative nationalism by many US conservatives.

Rubio's visit, following stops in Slovakia and Germany, aims to strengthen energy agreements between the US and Central European nations. Alignments with the Euroskeptic populist agenda, which supports Hungarian ties with Russia, are evident. Hungary's tight-knit connection with Trump is seen as pivotal for the upcoming elections.

(With inputs from agencies.)