Orban's Moscow visit draws European scrutiny amidst Ukraine war
There have been reports in the media that Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban will visit Moscow on Friday and meet with Vladimir Putin. Let's recall that a few days ago, Orban met with Volodymyr Zelensky in Kyiv.
VSquare service highlights that the information about the Hungarian prime minister's visit to Russia was obtained from several independent sources – representatives of the administration from Western and Central-Eastern European countries. Meanwhile, Radio Free Europe cites sources in the Hungarian government.
Panyi Szabolcs from VSquare shared on social media that the Hungarian prime minister will accompany Hungarian Foreign Minister Péter Szijjártó.
European Council President Charles Michel commented on the media reports on social media. He emphasised that Hungary, which took over the rotating presidency of the EU Council in July, does not have the mandate to cooperate with Russia on behalf of the EU.
"The European Council is clear: Russia is the aggressor, Ukraine is the victim. No discussion about Ukraine can take place without Ukraine," he wrote.
Donald Tusk also addressed Orban directly via social media. "Rumours about your visit to Moscow can't be true, can they?" wrote the former Polish premier.
Orban made a proposal to Zelensky. He wants to help Ukraine
During a press conference held after talks with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, Orban expressed his belief that peace talks could significantly accelerate if there was a ceasefire at the front.
The Hungarian prime minister desired to improve relations between the two countries. "We want to build a solid relationship between our countries; we want to sign a global cooperation agreement with Ukraine, similar to the agreements we have with our other neighbours," Orban said.
The Hungarian prime minister also declared that his country is ready to support the modernisation of the Ukrainian economy and intends to help Ukraine during its presidency in the EU Council. "I wish Ukraine all the best and assure you that during our presidency we will do everything we can to support you," Orban emphasised.
