Despite Viktor Orban’s visit to Kyiv, where he called for a ceasefire with Russia, diplomatic relations between Hungary and Ukraine remain tense.
ADVERTISEMENTAfter Viktor Orban’s visit to Kyiv, where the Hungarian Prime Minister called for a ceasefire with Russia, Volodymyr Zelensky spoke about relations between Ukraine and Hungary.
“In general, the relationship between Ukraine and Hungary is completely different. It is concrete and we take into account our mutual interests.“, the Ukrainian president said.
Volodymyr Zelensky did not respond to this ceasefire proposal. Tensions between Kyiv and Budapest date back well before this conflict.
Victor Orban, who last visited Ukraine in 2012, often accuses Kyiv of undermining the rights of the Hungarian minority in the country.
Recently, the leader has stood out for his positions on the conflict in Ukraine. Earlier this year, he vetoed a €50 billion package for Kyiv. He also opposed Ukraine’s accession to the European Union and sanctions against Russia.
For their part, the United States welcomed this meeting between the two men.
“The United States has learned of Prime Minister Orban’s visit to Kyiv, we believe this is a positive sign of progress and we look forward to hearing more about the discussions that took place.” said David Pressman, U.S. Ambassador to Hungary.
At the same time, the US Secretary of Defense met with his Ukrainian counterpart. Washington then announced a new aid package of 2.1 billion euros for Kyiv.
The United States will host a NATO summit next week, with support for Ukraine expected to top the agenda.
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