Kremlin: Russia backs Orban’s peace initiatives, Kyiv rejects proposals

Russia has voiced support for Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán’s proposals for a prisoner exchange and a Christmas ceasefire in Ukraine, although the initiatives have been rejected by Kyiv, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said on December 16.

Speaking to reporters, Peskov confirmed that Russian President Vladimir Putin had discussed the matter with Orbán, Caliber.Az report, citing Russian media.

“President Putin supported the Hungarian Prime Minister’s peacekeeping efforts, but these initiatives were not accepted by the Ukrainian side, particularly by President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. That is the reality of the situation,” Peskov said.

Addressing speculation that Orbán’s proposals have received backing from members of US President-elect Donald Trump’s team, Peskov stressed that the current administration remains in power.

“Trump’s team does not currently control the White House. The administration of President Joe Biden is in place until January 20,” Peskov remarked.

Kyiv has not publicly commented on Orbán’s proposals, and there has been no indication of direct engagement between Ukrainian and Hungarian officials on the matter.

To recap, Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán held a one-hour phone conversation with Russian President Vladimir Putin on December 11, discussing potential peace initiatives for the ongoing war in Ukraine. Orbán described the current phase of the conflict as “the most dangerous weeks” and emphasized Hungary's push for a ceasefire and peace talks.

However, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy criticized Orbán’s engagement with Putin, warning against actions that could undermine allied unity. “No one should boost their personal image at the expense of unity,” Zelenskyy posted on social media, adding that any discussions about the war must involve Ukraine.

Kyiv has reiterated that a ceasefire without comprehensive agreements would benefit Moscow, potentially solidifying Russian control over roughly 20 percent of Ukrainian territory.

Furthermore, Peskov declined to comment on reports alleging the deaths of North Korean soldiers in Russia's Kursk region, directing questions on the matter to the Ministry of Defence.

“This is a question for the Ministry of Defence,” Peskov told reporters.

The Kremlin has previously avoided confirming or denying allegations of foreign troop involvement in Russia's conflict-related activities.

By Aghakazim Guliyev