Hungarian PM confirms Russia’s offer for Christmas truce, prisoner exchange But Ukraine yet to agree
Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán has confirmed that Russia is prepared to carry out a prisoner exchange with Ukraine over the Christmas period, although Ukraine has yet to give its approval.
Speaking on a morning programme on Kossuth radio, Orbán explained that he had discussed the possibility of a "Christmas truce" and a large-scale prisoner swap with Russian President Vladimir Putin on December 11, Caliber.Az reports.
Following the discussion, Hungary relayed the proposal to Ukraine through diplomatic channels. However, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy rejected the offer.
Despite Ukraine's refusal, Orbán suggested that there is still a chance the exchange could take place. "One side has agreed, the other seems to have refused, but the possibility still remains," Orbán said, adding that such an exchange could bring "happiness to hundreds or even thousands of people."
The Prime Minister had previously expressed his disappointment over Ukraine’s decision, emphasizing the potential positive impact of a mass prisoner exchange between the two warring nations.
Meanwhile, Orbán has called the "open door" for peace negotiations in Ukraine the most significant achievement of Hungary's presidency of the European Union. He emphasized that, six months ago, peace talks were not on the agenda, but now the EU is discussing it.
He stressed the importance of focusing on Europe's defence and establishing a new security framework with neighbouring countries. Orbán also warned against the risk of escalating the conflict and advocated for a swift ceasefire.
Premier noted that both Hungary and the Vatican have consistently pushed for peace since the conflict's onset.
By Aghakazim Guliyev