A minister from this country noted that the Hungarian leader’s visit to Putin did not violate any international or European laws and regulations. The Hungarian government believes that every opportunity that might lead to an earlier end to the war in Ukraine and save lives should be utilized. This was stated by Hungary’s Minister for EU Affairs, János Bóka, in response to Orbán’s visit to Moscow.
How Hungary Assessed Orbán’s Visit to Moscow
“I think these discussions and the fact that they took place are entirely within the permissible political range agreed upon by the European Council,” said János Bóka.
According to the Hungarian side, the fact that Orbán informed colleagues about the results of the meeting indicates a “willingness to contribute to the discussion on the war in Ukraine.” Bóka emphasized that the Hungarian leader did not represent the EU during the meeting with Putin, although Hungary currently holds the presidency of the EU Council.
“The Prime Minister (of Hungary, Viktor Orbán – 24 Kanal) is aware of the responsibility that comes with the presidency of the EU Council. In the spirit of this responsibility, he informed the President of the European Council and heads of state and government about these visits,” said János Bóka.
The Budapest representative stated that EU member states received all explanations and necessary information. According to him, the countries themselves must decide whether they want to take any actions based on the information received by the Hungarian side.
“Hungary’s position is that if there is any chance that this could lead to an earlier resolution of the conflict and the saving of lives, it is a political responsibility that the Hungarian Prime Minister should take. I personally see no connection between my Prime Minister’s meeting and the subsequent shelling of the hospital, which I consider tragic,” said János Bóka.
The Hungarian minister also commented on the shelling of the “Okhmatdyt” hospital in Kyiv by the Russians. He noted that Orbán’s meeting with Putin has no connection to the tragic loss of lives in Kyiv.
“I am deeply moved and touched, and this only underscores the necessity that we must do everything possible to find a just and sustainable end to these hostilities and a platform for achieving lasting peace,” Bóka commented on the shelling in Kyiv.
