The Wall Street Journal reports that Washington has encouraged former Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán to enter the race for the United Nations’ top job, with Russia and China reportedly open to backing his candidacy. No final decision has been made, and Orbán has declined to comment.
The Trump administration is considering former Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán for the post of United Nations Secretary-General, according to a Wall Street Journal (WSJ) opinion article published on Sunday, 25 October. The newspaper, citing sources from three countries, reports that Washington has raised the idea directly with Orbán and encouraged him to compete for the position.
According to the report, US officials believe Russia and China could also support the proposal, potentially making Orbán a joint candidate backed by three major powers. However, the plan has yet to receive final approval, and no formal nomination has been announced.
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Why Washington is reportedly backing Orbán
A US State Department official quoted by the WSJ acknowledged that the idea might initially sound far-fetched. Nevertheless, the official suggested that Orbán could attract sufficient support in the UN Security Council.
The official estimated that eight of the council’s 15 members would support the former Hungarian prime minister, with backing from as many as 10 potentially within reach. Whether the United Kingdom and France would oppose his candidacy remains a key question, as both countries are permanent members with veto powers.
The newspaper reports that Orbán’s political outlook is a major attraction for the Trump administration. One US official described him as a “dream candidate for MAGA conservatives”, pointing to his positions on mass immigration and liberal non-governmental organisations, as well as his record of challenging the European Union.
The article also highlights Orbán’s close relations with Russia and his efforts to strengthen Hungary’s ties with China. While the WSJ notes that his perceived defence of leaders such as Vladimir Putin could count against him, the newspaper reports that US officials have continued to raise his name in discussions with Russian and Chinese counterparts.
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Orbán is reportedly interested, but cautious
According to the WSJ, American officials initially approached Orbán to find out whether he would consider taking on an international role. The former prime minister reportedly appeared open to the idea but was reluctant to enter the race without a strong prospect of winning.
The report suggests that an announcement could come after the US midterm elections, with President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance expected to support Orbán’s candidacy if he decides to run. Orbán declined to comment on the newspaper’s claims.
The prospect of an international appointment is not entirely new. In May 2026, investigative journalist Szabolcs Panyi reported that positions at the UN, including a deputy secretary-general role, had been discussed as possible options for Orbán. The latest report, however, concerns the organisation’s top leadership position.
Who will become the next UN Secretary-General?
The selection process for the next secretary-general is already under way. António Guterres’ term ends on 31 December 2026, and several potential candidates are being considered. Among them is Lana Nusseibeh, a diplomat from the United Arab Emirates, who announced her candidacy last week.
The appointment requires a recommendation from the UN Security Council, which has 15 members. A candidate needs at least nine votes and must avoid a veto from any of the five permanent members: the United States, Russia, China, the United Kingdom and France. The UN General Assembly then appoints the secretary-general following the council’s recommendation.
