Viktor Orbán, Hungary's head of state with strong relations with Russia, traveled to Moscow for discussions with Russian President Vladimir Putin on Friday. This move follows his recent visit to Kyiv and demonstrates Orbán's attempt at acting as an intermediary between the two countries amidst the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
The Hungarian leader's journey to Russia has received criticism from other European Union leaders, particularly considering that Hungary is currently holding the EU's rotating presidency until December 31st.
A brief video of Orbán and Putin meeting at the Kremlin was released by Russian authorities.
Orbán shared a photo on social media showcasing his arrival in Moscow, using the caption: “Peace mission continues. Second destination: Moscow.”
In response to Orbán's trip, Brussels expressed disapproval, stating that he does not represent EU interests and has no authorization from the European Council to visit Russia. Josep Borrell, the EU's foreign policy chief, emphasized in a statement that Orbán is acting solely on behranking bilateral relations between Hungary and Russia, rather than representing Europe as a whole.
Orbán clarified before his unexpected trip to Moscow that he isn't representing European interests but instead seeks personal involvement in resolving the conflict.
“You can’t negotiate peace from your desk in Brussels,” Orbán stated, emphasizing the importance of actively participating in the situation rather than waiting for a resolution to occur unexpectedly. This sentiment was shared with Hungary's public radio broadcaster Kossuth.
During his trip to Kyiv earlier this week, Orbán expressed his desire for a ceasefire and discussed it with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy. However, both leaders dismissed the idea as they have reservations about trusting Putin's intentions in principle.
The ongoing conflict has sparked concern among Ukrainians regarding their national security, as a ceasefire could potentially allow Russia to regroup and attack again if not backed by concrete guarantees such as NATO membership.
Putin also stated that he cannot agree to a ceasefire without Ukraine taking reciprocal actions. Meanwhile, Orbán's visit is the first by an EU leader to Moscow since Austrian chancellor Karl Nehammer made unsuccessful attempts in April 2022 to negotiate an end to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
Orbán's trip has raised concerns within Brussels and among other EU member states, who are already wary of Orbán's influence on European unity and the rule of law. In response, Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk humorously remarked: “The question is in whose hands this tool (peace) lies.”
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen expressed her stance by stating: "Appeasement won't stop Putin. Only unity and determination will pave the path to a comprehensive, just, and lasting peace in Ukraine."
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