Viktor Orban Visits Kyiv: Calls for Ceasefire Amid Tense Relations

Viktor Orban's Surprising Visit to Kyiv

Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban made an unexpected visit to Kyiv, Ukraine, marking his first visit in twelve years. The visit comes after several unheeded invitations from Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. The two leaders met on the sidelines of a European summit in Brussels, where a security agreement between the EU and Ukraine was signed. However, the meeting was marked by tension, as evidenced by the serious expressions and distance maintained in the official photos.

Call for Ceasefire and Disagreements on Peace Terms

During the visit, Viktor Orban called for a 'ceasefire' in the ongoing war between Ukraine and Russia, which began over two and a half years ago. In contrast, President Zelensky emphasized the need for a 'just peace' and called for continued European support, particularly in the form of arms deliveries. Orban's stance is complicated by his close ties to the Kremlin; he has vetoed significant EU financial packages for Ukraine and opposed sanctions against Russia. Orban even listed Zelensky among his 'opponents' in a speech following his re-election in 2022.

Efforts to Improve Bilateral Relations

Despite the tensions, Orban expressed a desire to 'improve' relations between Hungary and Ukraine. He thanked Zelensky for the 'frank and open' atmosphere during their discussions and indicated a willingness to move past previous disagreements. The path to peace remains fraught with challenges, as Ukraine demands the withdrawal of Russian forces and Moscow insists on territorial concessions and a halt to NATO ambitions.