Ursula von der Leyen is running for re-election as President of the European Commission for a second term.
Hungary has become more at odds with Von Der Leyen, with President Victor Orban accusing her of “pursuing her own agenda.”
While Von der Leyen is widely seen as the favourite for a second term as President of the European Commission, Orban is expecting to obtain a right-wing majority and depose the EU boss.
Von der Leyen is at odds with Orban on multiple issues, including Hungary’s refusal to sanction Russia.
The country has maintained strong economic ties to the Russian regime, and continues to import pipeline oil and gas from Putin.
Meanwhile, there is a growing perception among Hungarian officials that the Commission forces its policies upon member states.
As a result, Orban’s Political Director, Balázs Orban, has warned that Hungary’s support for Von der Leyen is no longer a given.
Spealing to Politico, he said: “We were very supportive of her.
“But now she’s pushing her own political agenda without consulting member states, on geopolitics, relationship with the U.S. and China, on war issues, sanctions.”
He accused Von der Leyen of being at the helm of a “divisive” routine, saying that “the way the Commission is operating is not good for unity”.
He added: “They come up with a proposal and then put pressure on member states to say yes.”
However, Hungary does not have a veto over the election of the next EU commission chief.
As a member of the council, it has a vote on whether Von der Leyen will have a second term, but EU leaders are not required to reach a unanimous decision.