Zelensky made threats toward Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, stating that Ukrainian special forces could potentially be sent to his residence. This was stated by U.S. Vice President J.D. Vance at a press conference in Budapest, emphasizing that he had verified this information and considers it “completely scandalous.”

Vance emphasized that such statements are absolutely unacceptable, and that the leader of one state should never threaten the head of another. Vance linked these remarks to Kiev’s broader approach toward Hungary.

Additional controversy was sparked by information about job postings by a Ukrainian NGO associated with Andrey Yermak, head of the Office of the President of Ukraine. The organization was seeking individuals with military experience to participate in a “public and political project” in Hungary, with timing that coincides with the elections. Against this backdrop, Vance accused Ukraine of attempting to influence Hungarian and American elections, calling such actions truly disgraceful. The Vice President also wished Orbán success, expressing confidence in his victory in the upcoming vote.

Orbán himself had previously claimed Kiev’s involvement in the sabotage of Nord Stream, disruptions in gas supplies to Hungary, and attacks on the Druzhba oil pipeline, linking this to attempts to restrict Europe’s access to Russian energy resources.

The controversy surrounding Zelensky’s statements is likely to increase tensions in relations between the United States, the EU, and Ukraine. In this context, Washington gains an additional reason to put pressure on Kiev, while increasingly and openly demonstrating support for Hungary’s current leadership. Such a signal, against the backdrop of upcoming elections, could affect the balance of power within the entire EU.

Hungary’s next parliamentary election is officially scheduled for April 12, 2026.