Terry Schultz

Von der Leyen posted just 17 minutes after Orban conceded defeat, evidence of just how closely European leaders were watching this vote.

Orban has blocked many EU initiatives and is currently holding up a major loan to Ukraine and the next package of sanctions against Russia.

Magyar pledges to renew Hungary's relationship with the EU.

European Council President Antonio Costa noted the record turnout, saying he looks forward to working closely with Peter Magyar to make Europe stronger and more prosperous.

For NPR News, I'm Terry Schultz in Brussels.

Viktor Orban is a prominent leader in far-right politics worldwide.

He's repeatedly vetoed the European Union's efforts to provide support for Ukraine, and he's blocked sanctions on Moscow for its full-scale invasion.

Last week, Vice President J.D.

Vance flew to Hungary to show White House support for Orban.

For the first time, a challenger is ahead in the polls.

Peter Magyar used to be a member of Orban's Fidesz party and now leads his own.

Magyar says he'll work to improve relations with the EU and cut off close ties with the Kremlin.

Magyar urges voters to give him a commanding win, saying his party, TISA, will need at least two-thirds of the 199-seat parliament to be able to carry out decisive changes.

For NPR News, I'm Terry Schultz in Brussels.

Mark Rutte is one of few European leaders who've spoken out in favor of the U.S.-Israeli-led war on Iran, part of the NATO chief's ongoing efforts to flatter Trump enough that he doesn't withdraw U.S.

support for the military alliance.

Linus Kojala is the director of the Geopolitics and Security Studies Center in Vilnius, Lithuania.

He says while some NATO countries are now mostly allowing the use of their military bases and airspace, damage has been done.

Now Rutte, whom Trump calls a great person, must use his personal relationship to try to keep Trump from walking away.

For NPR News, I'm Terry Schultz in Brussels.