The U.S. Embassy in Budapest has announced that Robert Palladino will take on the role of Chargé d’Affaires, ad interim, starting March 7. He will lead the embassy's efforts to engage with Hungary on behalf of the Trump Administration and the Secretary of State until a new U.S. Ambassador is nominated by the President, confirmed by the Senate, and arrives in Budapest. Palladino aims to strengthen ties between the United States and Hungary while advancing policies that support American security, sovereignty, and prosperity.
Palladino is a seasoned diplomat with experience across Asia, Europe, and the Middle East. His most recent position was Deputy Executive Secretary in the Office of the Secretary of State, where he was part of the senior management team supporting the Secretary. He has also led overseas missions as U.S. Consul General to Iraq's Kurdistan Region.
During President Trump's first term, Palladino was instrumental in shaping U.S. foreign policy as Chief of Staff to then-Deputy Secretary of State Stephen E. Biegun. He also served as Deputy Spokesperson for the Department of State and held roles at the National Security Council at the White House.
Before his diplomatic career, Palladino served in various postings across Asia, Europe, and the Middle East and was an officer in the U.S. Army Judge Advocate General’s Corps (JAG). He holds degrees from prestigious institutions including Notre Dame University and Washington & Lee University School of Law.
For media inquiries regarding this appointment, contact can be made through PressBDP@state.gov. Updates from Chargé d’Affaires Palladino are available on X: @USAmbHungary.