In a landmark political upset, Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán conceded defeat on Sunday after 16 years in power, signaling a major shift in the country’s political direction and within the European Union.

Opposition leader Péter Magyar, head of the Tisza party, secured a decisive victory in an election that saw record voter turnout of nearly 80%. Magyar has pledged to restore Hungary’s relationships with the European Union and NATO.

Orbán, widely known as a key figure in Europe’s nationalist right and a close ally of former U.S. President Donald Trump, described the outcome as “painful but clear.” “We congratulate the winning party and will serve the nation from the opposition,” he said.

Throughout his tenure, Orbán drew international attention for his authoritarian-leaning policies and his strong ties with Russian President Vladimir Putin, often clashing with EU leadership.

Celebrating his victory, Magyar told supporters: “Tonight, truth prevailed over lies. Hungarians chose to take responsibility for their country’s future.”

The result is expected to reshape Hungary’s role within Europe and could have broader implications for global far-right movements that long viewed Orbán as a political model.