A transcript of an October phone call between the Hungarian Prime Minister and the Russian President has surfaced, revealing the European leader’s direct offer of assistance to Moscow. The conversation, which occurred last autumn, has intensified existing questions about the depth of their bilateral relationship, coinciding with a high-profile visit by the U.S. Vice President to Budapest.
The transcript, reportedly obtained from Hungarian government sources, details the Prime Minister telling the Russian President, “I am at your service,” and offering to help “in any matter.” To underscore his commitment, the Hungarian leader invoked a classic fable, comparing himself to a mouse ready to aid a lion, a remark that elicited laughter from the Russian head of state.
This disclosure arrives during the final, contentious phase of a national election campaign in Hungary, where the long-serving Prime Minister faces a significant challenge from a former political ally. The race has drawn international attention, with allegations that both American political figures and Russian-linked influence networks are actively attempting to sway the outcome in favor of the incumbent.
The Prime Minister has long been characterized by his critics as the most Russia-aligned leader within the European Union, often adopting positions that diverge from the bloc’s consensus, particularly regarding sanctions and the conflict in Ukraine. In the same call, the Russian President reportedly commended Hungary for its “independent and flexible” foreign policy stance.
The election is being closely monitored across Europe, especially after recent controversies. Last week, leaked audio appeared to capture Hungary’s top diplomat promising his Russian counterpart to work on adjusting European sanctions lists, a claim that provoked anger among several EU member states.
As voters prepare to head to the polls, the emergence of this conversation has further fueled debates over national sovereignty and foreign allegiances, placing the Central European nation firmly in the international spotlight.
