Respect, not activism: How the U.S. can mend diplomatic relations with Hungary

OPINION:

In recent years, the relationship between the United States and Hungary has been overshadowed by unnecessary diplomatic friction, largely driven by U.S. Ambassador David Pressman’s activist approach to diplomacy.

Instead of fostering a relationship based on mutual respect and shared interests, Mr. Pressman has taken it upon himself to act more like a political operative in a foreign country than a diplomat, imposing his progressive agenda on Hungary and its people.

I’m in Hungary now, having just spoken at a pro-Israel summit. His approach to diplomacy is not working. Many tell me that he is persona non grata.

It is time for the United States to return to diplomacy grounded in respect, dialogue and truth, particularly in our relationship with Prime Minister Viktor Orban’s government.

Mr. Pressman’s tenure in Hungary has been marked by frequent and unfounded accusations, particularly the erroneous claim that Hungary’s government fosters antisemitism. Given the delicacy of diplomatic relations, Mr. Pressman’s accusation is false and dangerous.

It’s important to set the record straight: Hungary is not antisemitic, nor is its government. In fact, Hungary is one of the safest places for Jews in Europe. Mr. Pressman, who is Jewish like me, should know better and should be ashamed of himself for these false accusations.

Based on my observations, the Hungarian government under Mr. Orban has taken extensive measures to protect Jewish communities and promote Jewish cultural life. Budapest is home to one of the largest Jewish populations in Europe, and Hungary’s Jews thrive in an environment where their traditions and values are respected.

In contrast with many other European nations, where antisemitic attacks are rising at alarming rates, Hungary has established itself as a haven for Jews. Mr. Orban’s government has been a steadfast ally of Israel, repeatedly defending the Jewish state in international forums and ensuring that Hungarians understand the importance of a strong relationship with the Jewish people and Israel.

Mr. Pressman’s reckless rhetoric undermines Hungary’s reputation and harms the broader U.S.-Hungary relationship. Diplomatic relations should be based on respect for the host country’s sovereignty, culture and democratic choices.

By engaging in what amounts to political activism rather than diplomacy, Mr. Pressman is doing a disservice to both nations. He should be working to strengthen the ties between our countries, not inflaming tensions with baseless accusations that advance only his political agenda.

Mr. Pressman’s appointment was clearly a political move by the Biden administration, and it shows. Rather than focusing on building strategic alliances and fostering cooperation on issues such as regional security, economic development and energy policy, Mr. Pressman has chosen to champion liberal causes that are out of step with the values and priorities of Hungary’s democratically elected government.

This is not how diplomacy should be conducted. Diplomats are not political activists. They are representatives of their nation, tasked with building bridges and advancing shared interests — not enforcing ideological conformity. On this front, Mr. Pressman has failed miserably.

Hungary has been a staunch ally of the United States for decades. It played a critical role in NATO and has consistently supported American interests in the region. Yet under the current diplomatic leadership, we risk alienating a key European partner.

If we are serious about restoring our relationships with allies, we need to treat them with respect. The Biden administration’s approach to Hungary is emblematic of a broader issue: Too often, American diplomacy is held hostage by ideological activism. It’s time to bring back diplomacy built on mutual respect, dialogue and cooperation — not division and name-calling.

Hungary is a strong nation with a proud history and a deep commitment to its traditions. The United States should be working with Hungary, not against it. A renewed focus on diplomacy that prioritizes mutual respect over political posturing will strengthen our relationship with Hungary and serve as a model for how we engage with other nations worldwide. We can expect this should Donald Trump return to the White House in January.

The Hungarian people deserve better, and so do the American people. The United States must chart a new course in our relationship with Hungary based on truth, respect and shared values.

Let’s put political activism in the trash can where it belongs and get back to the business of real diplomacy based on respect for each other’s cultures. I know that with Mr. Trump back in the Oval Office, U.S.-Hungarian relations will return to a golden age.

• Bryan E. Leib is CEO of Henry Public Relations, senior fellow with the Center for Fundamental Rights and a former CPAC-endorsed Republican candidate for Congress in 2024.