The latest session of the PRINCEPS Executive Club, held on 2 December 2024, brought together experts and professionals to examine Hungary’s strategic positioning under Trump’s re-election as U.S. President. Hosted by the PRINCEPS Risk Intelligence Institute in collaboration with the Harvard Club of Prague and the Columbia Alumni Association of Prague, the event explored the “special relationship” between Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán and Donald Trump, and its broader implications for Hungary and the Central and Eastern European (CEE) region.

Keynote Speakers

The event featured Dr. Péter Rada, a distinguished academic and Vice Rector for International Affairs at Metropolitan University in Budapest. With a PhD in International Relations and Affairs from Corvinus University of Budapest, Dr. Rada is an expert in security policy, foreign decision-making, and U.S. foreign policy. His extensive experience includes serving as a Hungarian diplomat to the United States during President Trump’s first term, providing him with unique insights into the relationship between Trump and Prime Minister Orbán, as well as the broader context of U.S.-Hungarian diplomacy.

Joining him at the event was Mr. Zalán Zubor, a journalist with Atlatszo.hu, a Hungarian nonprofit specializing in investigative reporting and advocacy. Mr. Zubor’s work focuses on foreign influence and security risks in Hungary, along with the Hungarian government’s position on the war in Ukraine.

Discussion

The discussion centered on Orbán’s relationship with Donald Trump, particularly in light of his recent re-election. Key topics included Hungary’s political and economic direction amidst the new U.S. administration and the ongoing war in Ukraine. The conversation also addressed the topic of foreign investment in Hungary, as well as Hungarian investments abroad. Additionally, it touched on regional security dynamics, including Orbán’s role as a self-proclaimed peace mediator, highlighted by his so-called “peace missions,” referring to his visits to Russia and China in the past year.

Acknowledgment

The PRINCEPS Risk Intelligence Institute thanks its keynote speakers, participants, and co-organizers, the Harvard Club of Prague and the Columbia Alumni Association of Prague, for their contributions to the discussion.