President Donald Trump threw his support behind Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán just days before the country's parliamentary elections, speaking live via phone at a Budapest rally on Tuesday.

Vice President JD Vance, who traveled to Hungary to bolster Orbán's reelection bid, called Trump from the stage of the 'Day of Friendship' event. Trump told the crowd of several thousand supporters, 'I'm a big fan of Viktor. I'm with him all the way. The United States is with him all the way,' describing Orbán as 'a fantastic guy.' The rally aimed to rally voters for Fidesz, Orbán's ruling party, amid a tightening race.

The parliamentary elections are set for Sunday, April 12, when Hungarians will elect all 199 members of the National Assembly. Orbán, who has led Hungary for 16 years, faces his stiffest challenge yet from Péter Magyar and his Tisza party. Recent polls show Tisza leading, with some projections suggesting it could secure a two-thirds majority in parliament.

Trump's intervention follows earlier endorsements. In late March, he posted on Truth Social urging Hungarians to 'GET OUT AND VOTE FOR VIKTOR ORBÁN,' calling him a 'true friend, fighter, and winner' who has strengthened the economy, protected borders, and ensured law and order. At the CPAC Hungary event earlier that month, Trump offered his 'complete and total endorsement,' praising Orbán's defense of borders, culture, and sovereignty.

The U.S. leaders' involvement underscores the close alliance between Trump and Orbán, who share views on immigration, national sovereignty, and resistance to EU mandates. Vance accused European bureaucrats of overreach during his remarks, echoing Orbán's long-standing criticisms of Brussels.

Critics in Europe have labeled the U.S. actions as election meddling, but the U.S. envoy in Budapest countered that public support for a fellow leader does not constitute interference. Orbán has also received backing from Russia, complicating his position amid Hungary's EU membership.

Orbán's Fidesz has dominated Hungarian politics since 2010, implementing policies that include strict border controls credited with curbing migration and boosting economic growth. However, opponents accuse the government of eroding democratic institutions and media freedom. Magyar, a former insider turned critic, has surged in popularity by tapping into voter fatigue.

With campaigning in its final stretch, both sides intensify efforts. A Tisza victory could end Orbán's era and shift Hungary toward a more pro-EU stance, while a Fidesz win would solidify his influence. Polls indicate a close contest as voters head to the polls Sunday.