U.S. Vice President Jay D. Vance Accuses Ukrainian Intelligence of Interfering in Elections

During a joint press conference with Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban on April 7, U.S. Vice President Jay D. Vance made a significant claim, asserting that some members of Ukrainian intelligence services are trying to meddle in the presidential elections in the United States, which are set for 2024, as well as in the parliamentary elections in Hungary. This statement has sparked considerable attention and debate.

Vance emphasized that there are individuals within the Ukrainian intelligence community who, according to him, have been conducting a campaign to support the Democratic Party ahead of the U.S. elections. 'Yes, we certainly know that there are elements in the Ukrainian intelligence services that are trying to influence the outcomes of the American and Hungarian elections. This is just their usual practice. It's part of the price that has to be paid for cooperating with certain elements of their system,' he stated.

The Vice President also expressed confidence that Viktor Orban does not allow these factors to influence his decisions, just as he himself does not. 'So I am aware of such things, but you know, I don't think Viktor (Orban) allows these things to influence him, and I do not allow these things to influence me,' Vance added, highlighting the importance of independence in decision-making.

Moreover, he stressed the shared interest of all parties in bringing an end to Russia's war against Ukraine as quickly as possible. 'And whatever certain elements in the Ukrainian system may think about me or anyone else, I truly believe that it is in the interest of Ukraine, in the interest of Europe and Hungary, and in the interest of the United States, for this war to end as soon as possible,' he remarked.

Vance's visit to Hungary began on April 7, just days before the parliamentary elections scheduled for April 12. He underscored that he came to Budapest because he believes Brussels is trying to interfere in Hungary's elections. The U.S. Vice President claims that 'bureaucrats in Brussels' have attempted to influence the elections, particularly by raising prices.

Previously, Reuters reported that the purpose of Vance's trip was to demonstrate support for Orban, who, according to most polls, is trailing behind his opponent ahead of the elections. On March 25, U.S. President Donald Trump also expressed his 'full support' for Orban, urging Hungarians to vote for him in the parliamentary elections.

Additionally, on February 16, Viktor Orban, during a press conference with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, accused Ukraine of interfering in the Hungarian elections. On March 15, during a rally in Budapest dedicated to Hungary's National Day, Orban again accused Ukraine of meddling in the electoral campaign, claiming that Kyiv supports the opposition and the EU in an alleged attempt to remove him from office.

Analysts believe that the situation in Hungary is tense, as polls indicate that the opposition party Tisza is supported by 56% of voters, which is a 3% increase since early March. Meanwhile, the ruling party Fidesz has only garnered support from 37% of respondents, a 2% decrease compared to three weeks ago. Approximately 26% of voters remain undecided about their choice.