Russian President Vladimir Putin and Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán engaged in a phone conversation on Wednesday, which focused on the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Allegedly initiated by Orbán, the discussion lasted for an hour and explored potential avenues for peace amid continued hostilities.
The Kremlin described the talks as a comprehensive exchange of views concerning the Ukraine crisis. Putin had reportedly blamed Kyiv’s leadership for obstructing peace efforts, asserting that Ukraine’s stance barred progress toward finding a diplomatic resolution. Meanwhile, Orbán expressed an interest in contributing to a coordinated international effort to terminate the war through political and diplomatic channels.
Orbán’s outreach followed recent remarks by Hungary’s foreign minister, signaling Budapest’s intent to launch a Ukraine “peace mission.” This diplomatic initiative aligns with Orbán’s longstanding calls for ceasefire negotiations while maintaining Hungary’s refusal to provide military aid to Ukraine.
The Hungarian leader has been a consistent advocate for diplomatic engagement, positioning himself as a potential intermediary between Russia and the West. However, his diplomatic overtures have sparked criticism from European Union partners, particularly given Hungary’s current tenure as the EU’s rotating presidency. His engagement with Moscow in July has already sparked disapproval from certain fellow EU leaders.
The timing of the call overlaps with Orbán’s recent meeting with U.S. President-elect Donald Trump at the latter’s Mar-a-Lago estate, leading to speculation about Orbán potentially conveying messages from Trump to Putin. However, the Kremlin vehemently dismissed such claims, asserting that they had not relayed any communication from the incoming U.S. administration.
Meanwhile, in a parallel diplomatic effort to resolve the Ukraine conflict, Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk has been actively positioning Poland as a leading force. His engagements have included consultations with Western leaders, including French President Emmanuel Macron and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. Tusk’s effort for a unified European approach is evident as Poland prepares to assume the EU’s rotating presidency next year.
The Putin-Orbán call also reportedly discussed energy cooperation between Russia and Hungary. Hungary continues to rely on Moscow for its energy supplies, highlighting the complexities of balancing national interests with broader European camaraderie, despite EU measures aimed at reducing reliance on Russian energy. With diplomatic activity escalating on multiple fronts, prospects for peace in Ukraine remain challenging. Nevertheless, both Orbán and Tusk appear determined to influence the geopolitical landscape, though the path to an inclusive settlement remains fraught with challenges
