According to a report by the Financial Times, the Kremlin has embarked on a disinformation campaign to support Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban and his Fidesz party in the upcoming elections next month. Sources indicate that Vladimir Putin's administration has backed a media consulting firm connected to the Kremlin to disseminate messages designed in Russia, which influential Hungarians will publish to influence voters.

This campaign appears to be managed by Sergei Kiriyenko, the deputy head of Putin’s administration, known for planning various Russian electoral strategies. Investigative journalist Szabolcs Panyi has previously reported on this initiative, highlighting its focus on portraying Orban as the sole political figure capable of maintaining Hungary's sovereignty while adequately addressing global challenges. The efforts signify a concerning trend of foreign influence in domestic elections.

Historically, Russia has demonstrated interest in meddling in elections in other countries, evidenced by previous campaigns seen in places like Romania and Moldova, where extensive social media strategies were employed. This ongoing situation raises alarm regarding the manipulative tactics being utilized and the potential ramifications it could have on the electoral integrity in Hungary.