China’s Xi Promises Backing for Tajikistan’s ‘Territorial Integrity’
European Leaders Criticize Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban’s Meeting with Putin
European leaders have condemned Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban for his recent visit to Russia to meet with President Vladimir Putin. They accused Orban of shaking hands “with a bloody dictator” and of using his EU presidency position to create confusion.
Orban, known for his pro-Russia stance, claimed that his visit to Moscow was aimed at helping to resolve the conflict between Russia and Ukraine. However, Western and Ukrainian officials have denounced the trip, stating that Orban does not speak on behalf of the EU or Kyiv.
Estonian Prime Minister Kaja Kallas, who is set to become the EU’s next foreign affairs representative, emphasized that Orban does not represent the EU or its positions in Moscow. She criticized him for exploiting the EU presidency position to sow confusion and reiterated the EU’s support for Ukraine against Russian aggression.
Lithuanian President Gitanas Nauseda echoed Kallas’s sentiments, stating that true peace efforts should involve supporting Ukraine rather than cozying up to a dictator. Orban’s attempt to facilitate dialogue between the warring parties was met with skepticism as EU and Ukrainian officials stressed that he lacked the authority to negotiate on their behalf.
During his meeting with Putin, Orban acknowledged the significant differences between Kyiv and Moscow but vowed to continue working towards peace. However, EU officials clarified that Orban’s visit was solely a bilateral matter between Hungary and Russia, with no mandate from the EU Council.
Orban’s close ties with Putin and his reluctance to support Western aid efforts for Ukraine have raised concerns among EU members. His recent actions, including a surprise cease-fire proposal in Kyiv, have further strained relations within the bloc amid Russia’s ongoing invasion of Ukraine.
While Orban’s visit to Moscow might have been well-intentioned, EU and Ukrainian officials remain wary of his motives and emphasize the need for unity in supporting Ukraine’s territorial integrity. As the conflict in Ukraine continues, the role of Hungary and its leader in European diplomacy remains a subject of debate and scrutiny.
