Madrid: Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban and French politician Marine Le Pen led a rally in Madrid on Saturday, representing Europe’s largest far-right alliance. Energized by Donald Trump’s political resurgence, they called for a significant shift in the European Union’s direction.
The alliance, known as Patriots for Europe, has reshaped the far-right landscape within the EU. Since its formation last year—spearheaded by Orban—it has emerged as the third-largest force in the European Parliament, advocating for a stronger nationalist approach.
“Once, we were the outliers. Today, we are the mainstream… We represent the future,” declared Orban, sharing the stage with prominent far-right leaders, including Dutch politician Geert Wilders, Italian Deputy Prime Minister Matteo Salvini, and former Czech Prime Minister Andrej Babis.
Both Orban and Le Pen praised Trump’s political influence, describing it as a force that could shape the future of Europe. In a joint statement, the alliance criticized the EU’s approach, citing concerns over environmental policies, immigration, and excessive regulations.
“We are witnessing a major global shift. Trump’s movement is taking hold in the United States,” Le Pen remarked. “Meanwhile, the European Union appears to be in disarray.”
The rally, hosted by Spain’s Vox party, attracted approximately 2,000 attendees. It followed a private dinner attended by Patriots leaders and Kevin Roberts, head of the conservative U.S. think tank The Heritage Foundation. The event’s slogan, “Make Europe Great Again,” mirrored Trump’s well-known campaign motto, “Make America Great Again.”
Orban, considered one of Trump’s strongest allies in the EU, and Vox leader Santiago Abascal have emphasized their shared ideological stance, particularly on immigration.
“To us, President Trump is a true ally,” Wilders stated, calling for a “reconquest” of Europe, referencing historical battles fought by Spanish Christian rulers to reclaim the Iberian Peninsula from Muslim rule.
