In the day's other headlines, Vice President J.D. Vance is in Hungary today backing the Trump

administration's support for Prime Minister Victor Orban's re-election bid. During a joint press conference,

Vance praised Orban as a statesman and accused European Union officials of trying to sway the

election against him. The far-right leader and close Trump ally is trailing in many polls

ahead of Sunday's vote. Vance's appearance was a break with most politicians who avoid taking

an active role in the political campaigns of other countries. Later, the vice president began his

address to a crowd in Budapest by calling President Trump, who offered his own praise for Orban via speakerphone.

Mr. President, you were on with about 5,000 Hungarian patriots, and I think they love you even more than they love Victor Orban.

Well, I can't believe that. I can't believe that because I love Hungary and I love that Victor. I'll tell you, he's a fantastic man.

We've had a tremendous relationship.

Bance's visit comes as Orban is seeking a fifth term in office.

He's facing a strong challenge from center-right candidate Peter Magyar, who has called the election a referendum on whether Hungary continues to align with Russia or

with European democracies. The American journalist kidnapped in Iraq last week, Shelley Kittleson,

was reportedly released today. The Associated Press and other outlets say the 49-year-old was

freed this afternoon, but did not provide her current whereabouts.

Earlier in the day, the Iran-backed militia group, Khatib Hezbollah, said it would release Kittleson so long as she leaves Iraq immediately.

Closed circuit footage shows the moment a person believed to be Kittleson was rushed into a car

on a Baghdad street back on March 31st.

Iraqi officials reportedly say she was freed in exchange for the release of militia members,

though that has not been confirmed.

In Turkey, officials say gunmen attacked a building in Istanbul today that houses the Israeli

consulate.

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