Vice President JD Vance accused the European Union of unprecedented election interference in Hungary during a visit to Budapest on Tuesday, just five days before the country's parliamentary election.

Speaking to reporters after arriving at Budapest's airport, where he was greeted by Hungarian Foreign Minister Péter Szijjártó, Vance described the EU's actions as "one of the worst examples of foreign election interference that I've ever seen or even read about." He claimed bureaucrats in Brussels had tried to "destroy the economy of Hungary," reduce its energy independence, and drive up costs for consumers, all because they hate this guy," referring to Prime Minister Viktor Orbán.

Vance openly stated his purpose for the trip. "Of course, I want to help as much as I possibly can, the prime minister as he faces this election season," he said at a joint press conference with Orbán. The two leaders later appeared together at a "Day of Friendship" rally at MTK Sportpark, where Vance praised Orbán as a "model" for Europe on energy security and a constructive partner for peace amid the Ukraine conflict. He urged other European nations to follow Hungary's lead rather than make a "huge mistake" by cutting off energy from the east.

Hungary's election on Sunday, April 12, pits Orbán's Fidesz party, in power for 16 years, against challenger Péter Magyar's center-right Tisza party. Recent polls show Tisza leading significantly, with one survey indicating 56% support among decided voters compared to 37% for Fidesz. Magyar, a former Fidesz insider, has focused on economic woes, corruption, and cronyism under Orbán. Vance predicted Orbán's victory and expressed confidence in continued U.S.-Hungary ties.

Vance also criticized the EU's Digital Services Act, questioning why Brussels dictates content on social media platforms reaching Hungarian voters. He alleged elements in Ukrainian intelligence were meddling in both U.S. and Hungarian elections.

The visit highlights ongoing Hungary-EU tensions. The bloc has withheld billions in funds over concerns about the rule of law, judicial independence, and media freedom under Orbán's "illiberal democracy." Hungary maintains heavy reliance on Russian energy, now supplying 93% of its crude oil, and has blocked EU aid to Ukraine.

Magyar condemned the U.S. involvement, posting on social media: "No foreign country may interfere in Hungarian elections. This is our country." Analysts suggest Vance's appearance may backfire amid perceptions of U.S. negativity in Hungary.

During the rally, Vance connected with President Donald Trump via speakerphone, who called Orbán "a fantastic man." Orbán described U.S.-Hungary relations as entering a "golden age." The election carries weight beyond Hungary, testing populist resilience in Europe.