Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán has reportedly offered to act as a “mouse” in support of Russian President Vladimir Putin, according to leaked phone transcripts. In a conversation, Orbán expressed his willingness to assist Putin, stating, “Yesterday our friendship rose to such a high level that I can help in any way. In any matter where I can be of assistance, I am at your service.” This mouse-lion metaphor references Aesop’s fable, where a mouse liberates a lion from a trap, and reportedly prompted laughter from Putin.
Orbán has developed the closest ties with Putin among European leaders and has openly opposed military aid to Ukraine. Despite his critiques of the European Union, he has not attempted to withdraw Hungary from it. The comments surfaced as US Vice President JD Vance arrived in Hungary to bolster Orbán’s campaign ahead of a significant election, where his party currently trails in the polls. Vance’s support, echoed by endorsements from previous US President Donald Trump, highlights Orbán’s alignment with pro-Russian nationalism, which has garnered attention from US officials as a model for Europe.
The growing cooperation between the US and Hungary has been described by Orbán as a “golden era”, marked by enhanced economic and defence collaboration. Vance emphasized the shared “Christian values” and moral cooperation between the two nations during a joint press conference, underscoring the importance of this relationship ahead of Hungary’s electoral contest. The US’s support for Orbán, especially during a critical electoral period, indicates a strong commitment to maintaining alliances with global partners facing political challenges.