Mr. Orban, a self-declared illiberal nationalist, is Mr. Putin’s and Mr. Trump’s closest — if not their only close E.U. ally. Mr. Orban has long called for a cease-fire in Ukraine, a position untenable to Ukrainian leaders, who argue that it would lock in Russia’s territorial gains. The E.U. has helped arm Ukrainian forces and imposed broad sanctions against Russia in coordination with the Biden administration. It has also started talks to let Ukraine join as a full member. Will Urban succeed ?

