Trump Reportedly Backs Viktor Orbán for UN Secretary-General with Possible Russia-China Support

US President Donald Trump's administration is reportedly considering former Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán as a candidate for the next United Nations secretary-general, potentially seeking support from Russia and China in an unusual diplomatic initiative.

According to a report attributed to The Wall Street Journal on October 25, American officials have explored the possibility of presenting Orbán as a jointly supported candidate for the United Nations' highest administrative position.

Citing sources from three countries, the report suggested that US representatives initially proposed a candidate resembling Orbán during discussions with Russian and Chinese counterparts. Both countries reportedly responded positively, although neither Moscow nor Beijing has formally endorsed his candidacy.

Orbán, who reportedly expressed interest in the position, is said to be reluctant to enter the contest without sufficient assurance of securing the necessary international backing.

President Trump and Vice President JD Vance are reportedly expected to support the potential nomination. However, an official announcement could be postponed until after the November US midterm elections.

The selection process requires approval from the 15-member UN Security Council, where candidates must secure at least nine affirmative votes without facing a veto from any permanent member.

An American official reportedly estimated that Orbán could comfortably attract eight votes, with the possibility of securing ten. Nevertheless, opposition from Britain or France could prevent his appointment, even with support from Washington, Moscow and Beijing.

Following Security Council approval, the United Nations General Assembly formally appoints the secretary-general.

The reported proposal follows discussions about Orbán's political future after his electoral defeat in Hungary.

If confirmed, the initiative could signal an unusual alignment among the United States, Russia and China over UN leadership, potentially reshaping diplomatic negotiations surrounding the organisation's future direction. However, the reported discussions remain unconfirmed by official announcements.