The head of the European Union’s executive is congratulating Viktor Orban on his party’s overwhelming Hungarian election victory despite the prime minister’s outspoken dislike of several key EU policies. ___1:20 p.m.Chancellor Angela Merkel’s spokesman says the German leader has congratulated Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban, pledging that Germany will be a “reliable partner” for Budapest, despite differences. Capitalizing on its sweeping election victory, Hungary’s governing Fidesz party says it could push through the so-called “Stop Soros” laws targeting civic groups and people aiding refugees already in May. ____10:55 a.m.Germany’s conservative interior minister is welcoming Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban’s “very clear election victory” and warning the European Union against showing arrogance. ____10:45 a.m.Luxembourg’s foreign minister says Germany, France and others should weigh in against what he calls a “tumor” of scaremongering after Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban won a clear election victory.

Source: Washington Post April 09, 2018 08:49 UTC