During a visit to Hungary to support Prime Minister Viktor Orbán’s election campaign, U.S. Vice President JD Vance delivered a controversial speech, openly launching sharp criticism against the leadership of the European Union. The event marked a strong and public show of support from Washington toward Budapest, while further deepening tensions between Hungary and officials in Brussels.
Accusations of Economic and Energy Sabotage
Speaking before a crowd, Vance directly targeted the EU bureaucracy—widely seen as being led by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen. He accused Brussels officials of deliberately attempting to “destroy Hungary’s economy.”
According to Vance, the EU has tried to weaken Hungary’s energy independence and drive up living costs for its citizens. He argued that these actions stem from a single motive: EU officials “hate” Prime Minister Orbán. In contrast, Vance praised Orbán as a decisive leader who prioritizes the interests of the Hungarian people and focuses on achieving national prosperity.
Criticism of Election Interference and Digital Censorship
The most intense part of Vance’s speech centered on sovereignty and freedom of information. He described Brussels’ actions as the most “shameful” form of election interference and foreign intervention he had ever witnessed.
Vance questioned the EU’s alleged “digital censorship,” accusing officials of directing social media platforms on what information Hungarian voters are allowed to see.
“Hungarian voters are adults. They are sovereign in their own country and should be allowed to see any information they want about their elections—without someone in a distant capital treating them like children,” he declared.
Washington’s Message to Brussels
Representing the United States, Vance stated that he had been sent because Washington views the level of interference from Brussels’ bureaucracy as “truly disgraceful.” He concluded by urging EU officials to immediately stop telling Hungarian citizens how they should vote.