EU Leaders Criticize Hungarian Prime Minister for ‘Peace Trip’ to Russia

Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban’s recent meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow has sparked criticism from EU leaders. Orban, who described Hungary’s role in holding the rotating European Council presidency as a “peace mission,” met with Putin to discuss the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Putin expressed his desire to discuss the “nuances” that have developed in the conflict with Orban.

Orban emphasized the importance of dialogue in ending the war, stating that although views between Kyiv and Moscow remain far apart, the first step has been taken to restore communication. The Hungarian Prime Minister also visited Kyiv earlier in the week, marking his first trip to Ukraine since Russia’s invasion.

The meeting between Orban and Putin has raised concerns among EU leaders, who view Orban’s visit to Russia as potentially undermining the EU’s unified stance against Russian aggression. The EU has imposed sanctions on Russia for its involvement in the conflict in Ukraine, and leaders have criticized Orban for engaging in discussions with Putin.

The situation highlights the complex dynamics at play in Europe, as leaders navigate diplomatic relations with Russia while also upholding the EU’s stance on the conflict in Ukraine. Orban’s visit to both Moscow and Kyiv underscores the delicate balance that leaders must strike in addressing the ongoing crisis in the region.