Trump wants to see Orban at the head of the UN: the US can reach an agreement with Russia and China — WSJ

The administration of US President Donald Trump is considering the candidacy of former Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban for the post of Secretary-General of the United Nations. Washington hopes to enlist the support of Russia and China to make Orban a joint candidate for the three permanent members of the UN Security Council.

This was reported by The Wall Street Journal, citing sources in the three countries.

The US has already offered Orban to lead the UN

According to journalists, American officials have already approached Viktor Orban with a corresponding proposal.

The former Hungarian Prime Minister is allegedly interested in the opportunity to lead the international organization, but has not yet made a final decision.

Washington suggests that Orban’s candidacy may be supported not only by the US, but also by Russia and China.

Thus, he could potentially become a compromise candidate for the three permanent members of the UN Security Council.

How many countries can support Orban

According to a US State Department representative, Orban’s candidacy can receive the support of at least eight of the 15 members of the UN Security Council.

At the same time, the number of supporters can increase to ten.

However, to recommend a candidate for the post of UN Secretary-General, not only a sufficient number of votes is required, but also the absence of a veto from the permanent members of the Security Council.

These include the United States, Great Britain, France, China and Russia.

When can a new candidate be announced

An informal vote in the UN Security Council is scheduled for October 28, 2026, which should demonstrate the level of support for potential candidates.

At the same time, it is currently unknown whether Viktor Orban’s candidacy will be included in this vote.

According to the WSJ, the United States may officially announce its candidate after the midterm elections to the US Congress.

What is the relationship between Trump and Orban

Donald Trump previously openly supported Viktor Orban during the election campaign in Hungary.

In addition, US Vice President J.D. Vance also expressed support for the Hungarian politician.

Orban is known for his critical position on certain decisions of the European Union and maintaining political contacts with Russia.

His possible appointment to the post of UN Secretary-General may cause discussions among the organization’s member states, in particular regarding the future role of the UN in resolving international conflicts.

When does the term of office of the current UN Secretary-General end

The current Secretary-General of the United Nations is Antonio Guterres.

His term of office ends on December 31, 2026.

The new Secretary-General is appointed by the UN General Assembly on the recommendation of the Security Council.