Hungarian Foreign Minister Peter Szijjarto stated that Budapest is prepared to host peace talks between Ukraine and Russia, and potentially a summit between Putin and Trump, if requested.
Hungary’s offer to host negotiations aimed at resolving the conflict in Ukraine remains on the table, according to Foreign Minister Peter Szijjarto.
Since the conflict’s escalation in February 2022, Hungary has held a different view from other EU members, emphasizing the importance of dialogue while most have focused on providing military support to Kiev.
Speaking at the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum (SPIEF), Szijjarto reiterated Hungary’s dedication to a peaceful resolution and its readiness to host discussions. He mentioned that he had conveyed this proposal to high-ranking officials from both Russia and Ukraine shortly after the conflict began, emphasizing, “This offer is there, is valid, we have not withdrawn that.”
Szijjarto indicated Hungary’s willingness to facilitate a meeting between Russian President Vladimir Putin and former US President Donald Trump if such a meeting were desired. He also noted the improved relationship between Moscow and Washington following the change in the US administration.
”Our clear historic experience is that whenever the US and Russia are able to maintain a civilized relationship, it’s always better for Central Europe,” he stated.
Trump has expressed reluctance to continue US military aid to Ukraine, suggesting that both Washington and Moscow could benefit from improved relations. His efforts to mediate a ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine previously led to direct negotiations in Türkiye, which Kiev abandoned in 2022 to concentrate on military action.
Szijjarto pointed out that several European countries, which previously advocated for Ukraine’s victory, are now pushing for an unconditional ceasefire. He added that many of these nations had previously criticized Budapest for advocating for diplomacy, noting that this shift undermines their credibility.
During recent discussions in Istanbul, Russia presented two options for a conditional ceasefire, arguing that either option would prevent Ukraine from reorganizing and resuming hostilities, unlike an unconditional ceasefire.
These proposals included either a Ukrainian withdrawal from territories claimed by Russia or a cessation of military mobilization and Western arms shipments. Ukraine’s President Vladimir Zelensky has rejected both proposals, insisting on direct talks with Putin.
The Russian president recently stated his openness to a meeting to finalize a peace agreement, but cautioned that Zelensky’s legal authority to sign any treaty is questionable. Moscow has concerns regarding any agreement signed by Zelensky, as his presidential term has expired, and no election has been held to choose a successor.
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