Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán's recent visit to Moscow has sparked outrage among EU leaders, who fear it undermines efforts to negotiate with Russia amid the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán's controversial visit to Moscow has drawn sharp criticism from European Union leaders, who view it as a dangerous departure from the bloc's stance on the Ukraine conflict. Orbán, who met with Russian President Vladimir Putin on Tuesday, has advocated for a peace deal that would essentially require Ukraine to surrender annexed territories.
The visit has raised concerns that Hungary, which currently holds the rotating presidency of the EU, is undermining the bloc's unity in dealing with Russia. EU Foreign Policy Chief Josep Borrell has emphasized that Orbán does not represent the union in any capacity and that his actions could harm the EU's position in negotiations with Putin.
Hungary's Orbán Divides Europe with Putin Meeting
Finnish Prime Minister Petteri Orpo has described Orbán's visit as "disturbing," accusing him of ignoring the EU presidency's duties and damaging the bloc's interests. Meanwhile, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has insisted that "appeasement will not stop Putin" and that only "unity and determination" will lead to lasting peace in Ukraine.
Orbán has defended his trip, claiming to have had a candid conversation with Putin about possible solutions to the conflict. However, he has admitted that the positions between Kyiv and Moscow are far apart and that ending the war will require significant effort.
Hungary's Orbán Divides Europe with Putin Meeting
Ukraine's foreign ministry has expressed dismay over the visit, stating that it was made without any coordination with Ukraine. Ukraine's Navy Chief has also reported that Russian warships are leaving their Crimean hub in the Black Sea, a potential indication of changes in the conflict's dynamics.
Orbán's meeting with Putin has drawn criticism from both the EU and the United States. White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre has called the visit "counterproductive" and argued that it will not advance the cause of peace. In a pre-summit background call, the White House outlined its goals for the upcoming NATO summit, including strengthening Ukraine's air defenses and military capabilities to deter Putin.
Hungary's Orbán Divides Europe with Putin Meeting
The summit is set to mark the alliance's 75th anniversary and address the unresolved conflict between Russia and Ukraine. Despite the White House's stated commitment to supporting Ukraine, Orbán's actions have raised questions about the EU's ability to maintain a unified front in dealing with Putin.
As the war in Ukraine enters its third year, the positions of Kyiv and Moscow remain divided. Orbán's visit to Moscow has sparked concerns that Hungary may be pursuing its own interests at the expense of the EU's collective stance. The upcoming NATO summit will provide an opportunity for leaders to reaffirm their support for Ukraine and address the challenges posed by Russia's aggression.
Hungary's Orbán Divides Europe with Putin Meeting
