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Hungarian voters have ousted Viktor Orban after 16 years, marking a significant political shift. Election victor Peter Magyar has promised to restore ties with the European Union and NATO. The next step involves restructuring Hungary’s political landscape.

Ursula von der Leyen stated that Hungary is “coming back to the European path” following Péter Magyar’s significant electoral triumph. Current issues include key EU files that remain obstructed, highlighting ongoing challenges in Hungary’s alignment with European Union standards.

The European Union is prioritising drone production to enhance defence capabilities amid evolving modern warfare. By establishing its industrial capacity and introducing funding initiatives, the EU aims to reduce reliance on foreign suppliers and bolster drone manufacturing for enhanced security against contemporary threats.

Eurocontrol’s latest report highlights rising late flights across European airports as summer approaches, with total air traffic now at 100.2% of pre-pandemic levels. Notably, Lisbon’s Humberto Delgado airport recorded a 49% on-time departure rate, the lowest in Europe, prompting urgent calls for improved traffic management.

Hungary’s incoming Prime Minister Péter Magyar aims to visit Brussels to negotiate the release of billions in frozen EU funds. He emphasised his commitment to restoring checks and balances within the government, highlighting a significant shift in Hungary’s approach to EU relations.

US President Donald Trump has urged NATO allies to devise a plan within days to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, crucial for global energy supplies. Following talks with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte in Washington, expectations for military deployment and action remain amidst European reluctance.

An Italian arms dealer has pleaded guilty to illegally exporting over $540,000 worth of US ammunition to Russia via Kyrgyzstan, using Italian companies to bypass export controls. Manfred Gruber admitted to conspiracy charges, with sentencing pending in a New York court.

As Hungary’s elections approach, EU officials are preparing for potential outcomes, anticipating continued tensions under Viktor Orbán or a cautious reset with opposition leader Péter Magyar. Both pathways hold significant implications for Hungary’s relationship with the EU and its ongoing funding disputes.

Hungarians began voting on Sunday in a pivotal election that analysts label as a referendum on the 16-year tenure of Prime Minister Viktor Orbán. His key challenger, Péter Magyar of the Tisza Party, aims to disrupt Orbán’s parliamentary supermajority, amidst a campaign marked by intense personal attacks and allegations of intimidation.

Péter Magyar has rapidly become a significant figure in Hungarian politics, challenging the ruling Fidesz Party amid a presidential pardon scandal. Since 2024, he has capitalised on public discontent, securing a seat in the European Parliament and positioning his Tisza Party as a formidable opposition force.