Vance's Visit to Budapest: Orban Assures Putin of Support, Comparing Himself to a 'Mouse' Helping a 'Lion'

U.S. Vice President JD Vance made a significant visit to Budapest on Tuesday, April 7, just days before the parliamentary elections in Hungary. This visit comes against the backdrop of new revelations indicating that Prime Minister Viktor Orban has extended his support to Russian President Vladimir Putin, as reported by Bloomberg.

Accompanied by his wife, Vance was welcomed by Hungary's Foreign Minister Peter Szijjarto, according to Hungarian news outlet 24.hu. Szijjarto described the visit as the beginning of a 'golden era' in relations between Budapest and Washington in a video statement posted on Facebook.

In a previously unpublished conversation dated October 17, Orban informed Putin that he was ready to assist him 'in any way,' likening himself to a 'mouse' that helps a 'lion,' according to the transcript of the call. 'Yesterday our friendship reached such a high level that I can help in any way,' Orban stated. 'In any matter where I can be of service, I am at your disposal.'

This transcript was reviewed by Bloomberg. During the call, Orban also proposed to help organize a potential meeting between Russia and the United States in Budapest. This proposal had been discussed with U.S. President Donald Trump but was not realized.

Putin praised Hungary's 'independent and flexible' stance regarding Russia's war against Ukraine, according to the transcript of the conversation. Representatives for both Orban and Putin did not respond to requests for comments.

Recent reports indicate close communication between Hungarian and Russian officials on EU matters, including sanctions policy. Vance's visit occurs at a critical time in Hungary's election campaign, where Orban faces a serious challenge from opposition leader Peter Magyar.

Vance is scheduled to meet with Orban and is also set to deliver a speech on the 'rich partnership between the United States and Hungary.' Foreign Minister Peter Szijjarto denied any wrongdoing on the part of the government.