Hungarians vote in consequential election

Voters in Hungary are participating in what is widely considered the most significant election in the country's modern history, with early turnout reaching record levels.

Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, a key European ally of Donald Trump, faces a surging challenge from former government insider Péter Magyar.

The outcome of the ballot carries major implications for the European Union's internal unity and the West's collective stance on the war in Ukraine.

While Orbán has campaigned on a platform of national sovereignty and traditional values, Magyar has focused on anti-corruption and democratic renewal.