Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban arrived in Kyiv on Tuesday to engage in discussions with Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenskiy. The talks will focus on Hungarian-Ukrainian relations and current issues, according to Orban’s press chief.

Visit Amid EU Council Presidency

Orban’s visit comes just a day after Hungary assumed the rotating presidency of the European Union Council. Notably, Orban is known for his critical stance on Western military aid to Ukraine.

Focus on Peace and Bilateral Relations

Bertalan Havasi, Orban’s press chief, emphasized that the primary topic of the talks is the opportunity to create peace. In addition to this crucial issue, the leaders will discuss bilateral relations between Hungary and Ukraine.

Orban’s Position on Ukraine

Orban, often seen as the closest ally of Russian President Vladimir Putin among EU leaders, has repeatedly opposed EU efforts to support Ukraine’s defence against Russian aggression since the February 2022 invasion. Last year, Orban conveyed to Putin that Hungary had never intended to oppose Russia. In early 2024, Orban’s veto delayed an EU decision to extend €50 billion in new aid to Ukraine.

EU and Ukraine Relations

Despite these challenges, the EU recently opened membership talks with Ukraine, offering a significant political boost as the country continues its conflict with Russia. However, the path to EU membership for Ukraine remains long and arduous.

With Inputs from Reuters