US Vice President JD Vance arrived in Budapest on Tuesday, April 7, ahead of Hungary’s parliamentary election, even as a transcript reviewed by Bloomberg shows Prime Minister Viktor Orban offering support to Russian President Vladimir Putin.
Vance, accompanied by his wife, was received by Hungary’s Foreign Minister Péter Szijjártó, according to Hungarian outlet 24.hu.
Szijjártó described the visit as the start of a “golden age” in relations between Budapest and Washington in a video statement on Facebook.
Orban-Putin call, ‘mouse’ remark
In a previously unreported call on Oct. 17, Orban told Putin he was ready to assist him “in any way,” comparing himself to a “mouse” helping a “lion,” according to the transcript.
“Yesterday our friendship rose to such a high level that I can help in any way,” Orban said. “In any matter where I can be of assistance, I am at your service.”
The transcript was reviewed by Bloomberg.
During the call, Orban also offered to help organize a potential summit between Russia and the United States in Budapest.
The proposal was discussed with US President Donald Trump, but did not materialize.
Putin praised Hungary’s “independent and flexible” stance on Russia’s war against Ukraine, according to the transcript.
Spokespeople for Orban and Putin did not immediately respond to requests for comment.
Recent reports have suggested close communication between Hungarian and Russian officials on EU matters, including sanctions policy.
Hungary’s Foreign Minister Péter Szijjártó has denied wrongdoing.
Election context, US support
Vance’s visit comes in the final stretch of Hungary’s election campaign, where Orban faces a strong challenge from opposition leader Péter Magyar.
Vance is expected to meet Orban and deliver remarks on US-Hungary relations, according to his office.
The visit is widely seen as a signal of support from the Trump administration for Orban ahead of the vote.
Hungary has opposed military aid to Ukraine and maintained close ties with Moscow.