Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán arrived in Moscow on Friday for talks with President Vladimir Putin, a visit that the European Union views as potentially undermining the bloc's stance on the war in Ukraine. Putin welcomed Orbán, one of the closest European leaders to Moscow, at the Kremlin. At the beginning of their televised talks, he expressed hope that the Hungarian Prime Minister would speak on behalf of Europe regarding the Ukrainian issue, as Hungary holds the EU's rotating presidency, according to AFP. He also told Orbán, "I understand that you came at this time not only as a long-standing partner but as the president of the council," adding that he expects the Hungarian Prime Minister to outline "the position of European partners" regarding Ukraine.
Putin also confirmed that he wanted to "discuss the nuances that have developed" around the conflict in Ukraine with Orbán, who visited Kyiv earlier this week.
**European Criticism**
Meanwhile, EU leaders criticized Orbán for his visit to Putin during Hungary's presidency of the Council of the EU this week. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen wrote in a post on X that "appeasement will not stop Putin. Only unity and determination can pave the way for comprehensive, just, and lasting peace in Ukraine."
On his part, EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell stated that "Prime Minister Viktor Orbán's visit to Moscow occurs solely within the framework of bilateral relations between Hungary and Russia." He added that Orbán "did not receive any mandate from the European Council to visit Moscow," further stating that "this position rules out official communications between the EU and President Putin. Thus, the Hungarian Prime Minister does not represent the EU in any way."
European Council President Charles Michel reiterated this shared stance, saying, "There can be no discussions about Ukraine without Ukraine." NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg also announced that Orbán informed NATO of his visit to Moscow, emphasizing that he does not represent the alliance, but only his country.
**Following a Surprising Visit to Kyiv**
Orbán's visit to Moscow comes just days after his unexpected trip to Kyiv, where he urged Ukrainian leadership to work toward a swift ceasefire with Russia. This marks the first visit to Moscow by a European leader since Austrian Chancellor Karl Nehammer's trip in April 2022. Orbán and Putin met in October 2023 in Beijing, where they discussed energy cooperation.
It is noteworthy that the European Union, comprising 27 countries, strongly opposes the Russian military operation in Ukraine and has imposed 14 unprecedented packages of sanctions on Moscow in response. The presidency of the EU grants Hungary authority over the bloc's agenda and the ability to set priorities for the upcoming six months.
