Vance Accuses EU of ‘Disgraceful Interference’ Against Viktor Orban in Hungary’s Election

Vance made his remarks following a campaign rally for Orban ahead of the April 12 election, as the populist prime minister is trailing in the polls.

U.S. Vice President JD Vance and Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban (L) wave to the audience during a Day of Friendship event in Budapest, Hungary, on April 7, 2026. Jonathan Ernst/Pool Photo via AP

U.S. Vice President JD Vance took aim at what he called “disgraceful” interference by the European Union in Hungary’s upcoming general election as he gave his backing to populist Prime Minister Viktor ‌Orban.

Vance arrived in Budapest for a two-day visit on April 7, just days before a vote that polls suggest Orban, an ally of U.S. President Donald Trump, is likely to lose.