Daily brief
Hungary holds a parliamentary election that could end Viktor Orban's long tenure, with polls showing a competitive race against challenger Peter Magyar. The electoral system has been criticized as favoring Orban's party, while access to billions in frozen EU funds over rule-of-law concerns is a key campaign issue. The outcome will shape Hungary's political direction and its relationship with the European Union.
EU leaders express alarm over Hungary's ties with Russia and possible secret leaks, with Ursula von der Leyen planning to raise the issue and Lithuania calling for EU-level discussion.
A leaked call reveals a Trump ally offered Iran aid from Hungary after an Israeli pager strike on Hezbollah (ongoing coverage).
Italian Deputy Prime Minister Matteo Salvini says the Hungarian election is about two different visions for Europe.