Leaked conversations reveal Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán pledged to help Vladimir Putin “in any possible way,” including facilitating a peace summit in Budapest.
Leaked Conversation Details
According to Bloomberg, Viktor Orbán told Vladimir Putin he is prepared to do everything to assist the Russian leader, including aiding in ending the war in Ukraine through organizing a summit in Budapest.
The leaked telephone conversation began with birthday wishes to Putin, who turned 73 on October 7th. Orbán referenced a popular Hungarian children’s story about a mouse freeing a lion caught in a net, after the lion previously spared the rodent, reportedly eliciting laughter from Putin.
Orbán’s Offer of Support
“Our friendship has reached such a high level that I can help in any way possible,” Orbán allegedly told Putin. “In everything where I can be helpful, I am at your disposal.”
Mutual Compliments and Trump Discussion
Putin reportedly praised Hungary’s “independent and flexible” approach to the war in Ukraine. The two leaders largely exchanged compliments about each other and Donald Trump, having both spoken with the former US president the previous day regarding a potential Budapest summit that ultimately did not materialize.
Putin stated that Trump “is moving forward like a tank” and that “one can only rejoice in his successes,” praising his ability to handle multiple crises simultaneously, including in the Middle East. However, Moscow had previously criticized the US for attacks on Iran.
Conversation’s Conclusion and US Visit
The conversation concluded with both leaders inquiring about each other’s health. Putin mentioned exercising and skiing, asking if Orbán played football, to which Orbán replied, “I try,” prompting laughter from both.
Meanwhile, on April 7th, US Vice President J.D. Vance landed in Budapest. He is scheduled to meet with Prime Minister Orbán. Hungarian Foreign Minister Péter Szijjártó stated the visit signifies a “new golden age” in relations between Washington and Budapest, with discussions planned on migration, global security, and economic and energy cooperation.
Upcoming Elections and US Engagement
The Vice President’s two-day visit precedes parliamentary elections in Hungary, where Orbán’s party will compete against the opposition Tisza. Independent polls suggest Tisza holds a significant lead. Orbán has received support from former US President Donald Trump on several occasions, and Secretary of State Marco Rubio visited Hungary in February.
More information will be released shortly.
