Putin, Orbán discuss Ukraine, Middle East tensions in phone call

Russian President Vladimir Putin held a telephone conversation with Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, during which the two leaders discussed the war in Ukraine, rising tensions in the Middle East, and bilateral cooperation, according to the Kremlin.

The Kremlin said the sharply escalating situation surrounding Iran and across the broader Middle East was addressed, including the potential consequences for global energy markets, Caliber.Az reports via Russian media.

In their exchange of views on Ukraine, Putin highlighted Hungary’s "principled position in favour of a political and diplomatic settlement to the conflict." He also noted Budapest’s stated intention to pursue a balanced and sovereign foreign policy course.

Among the specific issues raised was the situation of Hungarian citizens who had been mobilised into the Ukrainian armed forces and were subsequently taken prisoner by Russia.

By Sabina Mammadli