Viktor Orban's Visit to Kyiv: A Push for Peace Talks
Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban made his first visit to Kyiv since the Russian invasion of Ukraine began in February 2022. During his meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, Orban urged Zelensky to consider a ceasefire to accelerate peace talks with Moscow. Orban stated, 'A ceasefire linked to a deadline would give the opportunity to accelerate peace talks.' He expressed gratitude for Zelensky's honest responses and willingness to negotiate.
Orban has consistently promoted the idea of ending the war through a ceasefire rather than military support for Ukraine. However, Zelensky and many of Ukraine's allies have ruled out any talks that would require Kyiv to sacrifice territory taken by force, citing distrust in Russian President Vladimir Putin's commitments.
Strained Relations and Future Cooperation
Orban's visit also aimed to improve strained relations between Hungary and Ukraine. He expressed a desire to reach a comprehensive bilateral agreement and participate in the modernization of the Ukrainian economy. 'We would like to improve the relationship between the two countries,' Orban said.
Hungary's close relationship with Russia has often come under scrutiny, especially as Orban has periodically blocked EU initiatives to provide more military and financial support to Ukraine. Despite this, Hungary has pledged not to block military or financial support actions for Ukraine in exchange for staying out of NATO's aid to Kyiv.
The visit comes as Hungary takes control of the rotating presidency of the EU Council. The presidency is described as an 'honest intermediary,' surpassing national interests to ensure the effectiveness of the EU. Orban's call to 'Make Europe Great Again' has alarmed some European counterparts, especially with the potential return of Donald Trump to the US presidency.
Upcoming key European diplomatic meetings in July, including NATO's 75th anniversary and the European Political Community forum, are expected to focus on long-term support for Ukraine and its potential accession to the alliance. Orban's visit to Kyiv ensures his first meeting with Zelensky since the war began would not occur in such a high-risk setting.
- In their joint appearance, Orban and Zelensky discussed various issues such as trade, cross-border cooperation, infrastructure, and energy. Orban emphasized the importance of peace for the security of both Ukraine and Europe as a whole.
- Orban's visit coincides with his efforts to recruit more members for a new nationalist alliance, 'Patriots for Europe,' which aims to become the third-largest right-wing group in the European Parliament. This initiative reflects Orban's broader political strategy within the EU.
- Despite the tensions, Orban's visit is seen as a political success for Zelensky's cabinet. Orban is one of the few European leaders who has met with Putin since the invasion began, highlighting the complex diplomatic landscape surrounding the conflict.
