In a notable move highlighting his resistance to the Biden administration's top priorities in Europe, Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán met with former President Donald Trump on Friday, following his visit to Washington where he did not meet with any Biden administration officials. The meeting comes after Orbán delayed both European aid to Ukraine and Sweden's bid to join NATO.

Orbán's relationship with global conservatives has been a subject of scrutiny, with the Hungarian Prime Minister often being hailed as a strong leader by conservative figures. During his visit to the United States, Orbán spoke at the Heritage Foundation, a conservative think tank, further cementing his ties with conservative supporters.

Orbán's ideology revolves around a strong emphasis on national values and the prioritization of families and borders. He has been critical of what he terms as "globalists" and their liberal international agenda, opting to push back against such influences.

Supporters of Orbán argue that his conservative policies have offered an alternative form of successful governance. They highlight achievements such as near-full employment and the provision of affordable energy through reliance on Russia. Orbán's stance on family values, including the traditional definition of marriage, also resonates with his supporters.

However, critics of Orbán claim that his policies have stifled free speech, restricted independent media, and compromised the independence of the judiciary. They accuse Orbán of seeking to establish an illiberal state based on national values, which they argue undermines democratic principles.

Orbán's adversaries also point to his methods of securing and maintaining power. They allege that he has manipulated the constitution and gerrymandered electoral districts to ensure one-party control. The last free and fair election in Hungary was reportedly held in 2010.

Of concern to the United States is Hungary's resistance to Sweden's bid to join NATO and its opposition to European Union support for Ukraine. Orbán successfully attained Swedish jets and unfrozen 10 billion euros from the EU, which had been withheld due to Hungary's violations of the rule of law. Experts warn that Orbán's actions are destabilizing key institutions relied upon by the US, such as the EU, NATO, and the Council of Europe.

Hungary's assertive stance under Orbán's leadership has showcased his ability to challenge established norms and pursue his own agenda, even in the face of international pressures. As Orbán meets with former President Trump, it is evident that his resistance to Biden's European priorities remains a significant point of contention in the global political landscape.