MOSCOW. Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán has arrived in Moscow for talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin, Orbán’s spokesman Bertalan Havasi confirmed. Orbán himself wrote on social media: “From Kiev to Moscow. Second stop of the peacekeeping mission.” No further details are known at this time.
The #peace mission continues. Second stop: #Moscow. pic.twitter.com/kPOkKBsJQm
— Orbán Viktor (@PM_ViktorOrban) July 5, 2024
A few days earlier, Hungary had taken over the EU Council presidency in turn. Orbán’s first official act was a trip to Ukraine. “The aim of the Hungarian presidency is to contribute to solving the challenges facing the European Union. My first trip was to Kiev,” he justified this step.
Orban: “Take steps towards peace”
About the the Hungarian leader had done that too “Surprising news from surprising places” was announced, fueling speculation about a trip to Russia. He stated on X: “You cannot create peace in Brussels from a comfortable armchair. Although the rotating presidency of the Council of the EU has no mandate to negotiate on behalf of the EU, we cannot sit back and wait for the war to end miraculously. We will be an important instrument in taking the first steps towards peace.”
There was sharp criticism within the EU. “The rotating presidency of the EU Council has no mandate to conduct a dialogue with Russia on behalf of the EU.” EU Council President Charles Michel protested. The Belgian made it clear: “Russia is the aggressor, Ukraine is the victim. Without Ukraine, there can be no discussion about Ukraine.” This is “clear” for the European Council.