Orbán’s Offer of Assistance to Putin in October Call
Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán reportedly expressed his willingness to provide extensive support to Russian President Vladimir Putin during a phone conversation in October. According to a transcript obtained by Bloomberg News, Orbán told Putin,
“I am at your service”and indicated readiness to assist in any matter.
The call, dated 17 October, included Orbán comparing their relationship to that of a “mouse” prepared to aid the “lion,” a metaphor he reinforced by referencing one of Aesop’s fables. In the fable, a mouse previously spared by a lion later frees the lion from hunters’ nets. The transcript suggests that Putin responded to this analogy with laughter.
This revelation has intensified scrutiny of Hungary’s connections with Moscow amid a tense election campaign in Budapest. The phone call took place as US Vice-President Kamala Harris and her wife, Usha Vance, arrived in Hungary on Air Force Two on Tuesday morning. Their visit coincides with the final days of a fiercely contested election marked by controversies involving Budapest’s relations with Russia.
Context of Hungary’s Political Climate and International Relations
Orbán, known for his right-wing populist stance and advocacy of what he terms an “illiberal democracy,” is often described as the European Union’s most Kremlin-friendly leader. Critics have labeled him as a potential “Trojan horse” for Putin within the EU.
Recent disclosures have highlighted the extent of efforts by both the US and Russia to influence Hungary’s election. Former US President Donald Trump has publicly endorsed Orbán, calling him a
“fantastic guy”and a
“strong and powerful leader.”Meanwhile, the Trump administration dispatched JD Vance to Hungary, apparently to support Orbán’s struggling campaign. Allegations have also surfaced that Russian intelligence and disinformation networks linked to Russia are attempting to sway the election outcome.
Hungarian voters are scheduled to cast their ballots over the weekend. Polls indicate that Orbán faces a significant challenge from Péter Magyar, a former senior member of Orbán’s party, Fidesz. This raises the possibility that Orbán could be removed from power after 16 years of leadership.
The election has attracted worldwide attention, elevating the profile of this Central European nation of approximately 9.5 million people. Within the EU, there is heightened concern, especially following leaked audio recordings last week. These recordings appear to capture Hungary’s Foreign Minister Péter Szijjártó discussing with his Russian counterpart, Sergei Lavrov, efforts to modify the EU sanctions list to Hungary’s advantage.
Details of the October Call Between Orbán and Putin
During the call, Putin commended Hungary’s
“independent and flexible”position regarding Russia’s war in Ukraine. He expressed confusion over the criticism Hungary faces for maintaining what he described as a
“balanced, middle-ground position.”
The conversation concluded with the leaders exchanging pleasantries about their health and personal activities. Putin remarked,
“I exercise, I also ski. I know you play football.”Orbán responded,
“I try,”prompting laughter from both leaders. Orbán then thanked Putin for the call and said goodbye in Russian, according to the transcript.
