Viktor Orbán conceded defeat in Hungary’s elections on Sunday, ending his 16-year rule as the Opposition surged to a commanding victory.

USA Today reports that the Opposition Tisza party is on course to secure 135 seats in the 199-seat Parliament, a two-thirds majority based on partial results released by the national election office. Its leader, Péter Magyar, who is expected to become prime minister, said Orbán called to congratulate him.

“The election results are not final yet, but the situation is understandable and clear,” Orbán said, describing the outcome as “painful”.

The projected supermajority would allow Tisza to pursue constitutional changes, similar to those enacted by Orbán’s Fidesz party in 2011. It may also mark a shift in Hungary’s stance within the European Union, potentially easing tensions and reopening support for Ukraine.

Presidednt of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, said Hungary had “chosen Europe”, adding that the country was reclaiming its place within the bloc.

Orbán, often compared to Donald Trump, has faced growing domestic discontent amid economic stagnation, rising living costs and concerns over wealth accumulation among government-linked elites. During a recent visit, United States Vice President JD Vance praised his leadership while criticising the European Union’s role in the election period.