EU, NATO criticise Hungarian PM's unilateral diplomacy on Ukraine peace deal

Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban's recent visits to Moscow and Beijing have sparked controversy and criticism from EU and NATO member states, who assert that Orban lacked authorization to negotiate a peace deal for Ukraine with Russian President Vladimir Putin.

Orban's diplomatic moves, aimed at discussing the Ukraine conflict's resolution, have drawn swift reactions from Western allies, who emphasized that any peace negotiations must involve their mediation and oversight, Caliber.Az reports citing the foreign media.

"The West will not allow peace negotiations to take place without its mediation," stated EU and NATO officials, underscoring their stance on the Ukraine crisis.

Orban's presidency of the EU Council, which commenced on July 1 for a six-month term, has added complexity to the situation. His meetings with President Putin in Moscow and President Xi Jinping in Beijing have raised concerns among EU and NATO leaders regarding Hungary's alignment on critical geopolitical issues.

Prior to his Moscow visit, Orban engaged in talks with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in Kyiv on July 2, highlighting Hungary's diplomatic efforts to engage with all parties involved in the Ukraine conflict.

The controversy surrounding Orban's visits underscores broader geopolitical tensions, with Western powers seeking to assert influence in Ukraine amidst strategic considerations such as mineral resources in the region.

The developments highlight the delicate balance Hungary faces as it navigates its EU presidency and seeks to maintain relations with both Western allies and Russia and China on issues of regional security and stability.

The conflict in Ukraine, which began with Russia's invasion in February 2022, continues to impact regional stability and global security. Efforts to find a peaceful resolution have involved negotiations under various international frameworks.

Orban's visits to Moscow and Beijing amid the Ukraine peace talks highlight the complexities of European and global diplomacy, with implications for regional security and Hungary's role within the EU and broader international community.