The Ukrainian authorities have expressed outrage over Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban’s uncoordinated trip to Russia, criticizing his decision to meet with Russian President Vladimir Putin without prior notification to Ukraine. Orban’s visit aimed to discuss establishing a ceasefire and initiating peace talks to resolve the conflict in Ukraine, following a similar meeting with Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelensky in Kiev earlier this week.
The Ukrainian Foreign Ministry condemned Orban’s actions, emphasizing the importance of Ukraine’s direct participation in negotiations concerning the conflict. Other European leaders, including Estonian Prime Minister Kaja Kallas and European Council President Charles Michel, have also criticized Orban’s visit to Moscow, highlighting the need for Ukraine’s involvement in any discussions related to the conflict.
Despite the backlash, Orban defended his actions, stating that Hungary aims to be a mediator in promoting peace between Moscow and Kiev. Meanwhile, Ukraine continues to advocate for Zelensky’s ten-step peace plan, while Moscow insists on considering the “realities on the ground” in any negotiations to resolve the conflict.