Prime Minister Viktor Orban of Hungary commented on Vladimir Putin’s response to whether a ceasefire in Ukraine is possible, calling the reply not encouraging. This assessment was reported by TASS.
Orban noted that today Europeans are asking one central question: will the fighting stop in Ukraine. He described the Russian President’s answer as not hopeful, to say the least, underscoring a cautious mood across Europe about any immediate halt to hostilities.
In Orban’s view, the most pressing concerns for Hungary lie in the end of the conflicts near Budapest, the ongoing flow of refugees, and the impact of sanctions. These are the issues that dominate Hungary’s security and economic outlook as the war persists in nearby regions.
Earlier, Putin and Orban met on the sidelines of the One Belt, One Road forum in China, where they discussed the state of bilateral relations between Hungary and Russia. The discussions highlighted the continuing dialogue despite broader geopolitical tensions.
Putin stated that even amid current geopolitical conditions, Moscow maintains and develops its relations with many European countries. He emphasized the importance of steady engagement and mutual interests in a time of regional uncertainty.
In his remarks, Putin highlighted Orban’s approach to defending Hungary’s interests. He described Orban as part of a small cadre of European leaders who persistently and tactfully protect national priorities, earning recognition for steadfast advocacy of his country’s positions.
Previously, Orban had briefed Putin on what concerns Europe, outlining the key issues and the viewpoints shaping the Hungarian stance in ongoing European discussions. This exchange reflected the ongoing effort to balance national interests with broader regional considerations amid an unsettled geopolitical landscape.