BUDAPEST, Hungary — U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio arrived in Hungary on Monday, engaging in discussions with Prime Minister Viktor Orbán and his administration about a new civilian nuclear cooperation agreement, a development endorsed by former President Donald Trump. The agreement comes as Hungary approaches critical elections on April 12, where Orbán and his Fidesz party face their toughest challenge since he regained power in 2010.

Rubio’s visit follows a series of diplomatic meetings, including a stop in Slovakia and attendance at the Munich Security Conference. Both Slovakia and Hungary are allied with populist movements that resist support for Ukraine and have expressed favor for Trump’s agenda, creating a conducive backdrop for energy discussions between the United States and these Central European nations.

Seen as a prominent ally of Russian President Vladimir Putin within the European Union, Orbán maintains friendly relations with Moscow, despite the ongoing war in Ukraine. His administration’s approach appeals to many in the conservative American political sphere, where Hungary is often viewed as a bastion of successful conservative nationalism, despite concerns over democratic backsliding and economic challenges.

Ahead of the upcoming elections, Trump has publicly endorsed Orbán, praising him as a “strong and powerful leader” and pushing for closer ties. This endorsement comes as the Hungarian leader has positioned himself against immigration, exemplified by a fence erected along Hungary’s southern border amid a surge of refugees from conflict-stricken regions.

Orbán’s government has also drawn criticism for its policies on LGBTQ+ rights, having previously banned events like Budapest Pride and enacted laws restricting same-sex adoption and marriage. Such stances resonate with a segment of U.S. conservatives who view these policies as reflective of their values.

Despite European efforts to reduce reliance on Russian energy, Orbán remains committed to Russian sources, evidenced by past exemptions from U.S. sanctions secured during his discussions with Trump. As Hungary prepares for pivotal elections, Orbán is reportedly keen on leveraging his ties with the U.S. to bolster his position in the domestic political landscape.

The civilian nuclear deal, slated for signing in Budapest, aims to enhance bilateral cooperation in civil nuclear energy, although specific details remain undisclosed. Previous discussions between Orbán and U.S. officials suggested Hungary’s potential investment in up to ten small modular reactors, with a projected value around $20 billion. Moreover, a fuel agreement with U.S.-based Westinghouse is intended to secure fuel for Hungary’s Russian-built Paks I nuclear facility.

In the wake of these developments, Budapest is positioning itself as a critical site for conservative gatherings, having hosted past iterations of the Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC) and planning for another event this March, timed just ahead of the elections.

As the countdown to elections intensifies, all eyes will be on whether Orbán can navigate the political landscape with the support of figures like Rubio and Trump at his side.