Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban arrived in Kiev on Tuesday for talks with President Volodymyr Zelensky, marking his first visit to Ukraine since the onset of the large-scale invasion over two years ago.
According to Hotnews Orban's visit comes just a day after Hungary assumed the rotating presidency of the EU, a role that will shape its diplomatic stance within the bloc and internationally.
Meeting in Western Ukraine
According to Orban's spokesperson, Bertalan Havasi, discussions between Orban and Zelensky will focus on opportunities for peace and current issues affecting Hungarian-Ukrainian bilateral relations.
The meeting is seen as crucial amidst ongoing tensions, particularly concerning the rights of the Hungarian-speaking minority in western Ukraine, near the border between the two countries.
Controversies and Diplomatic Maneuvers
Orban's diplomatic maneuvers carry significant weight as Hungary assumes leadership of the EU Council.
Critics have long accused Orban of using geopolitical issues, including minority rights, to advance positions aligned with Russian interests. Hungary's stance on supporting Ukraine militarily has diverged from many other EU nations, instead advocating for ceasefire negotiations.
Under Orban's leadership, Hungary has maintained close ties with Moscow, even as tensions between Russia and Ukraine persist. Orban's administration has been scrutinized for blocking EU decisions and policies, particularly those related to Ukraine's EU integration and military aid requests.
