Controversy Surrounds Orban's Meeting with Putin in Moscow

Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban's unannounced meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow has sparked widespread criticism from the EU and NATO countries. Leaders such as German Chancellor Olaf Scholz and EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen have condemned Orban's actions, stating that they do not align with the EU's position.

Orban, on the other hand, accuses the EU of inaction and sees himself as a potential peace mediator, a claim that is disputed by other politicians. The visit is seen as undermining the EU's unified stance against Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

Despite the backlash, Orban and Putin had an open discussion on resolving the Ukraine crisis, with Putin reiterating his demand for Ukraine's capitulation for peace. The meeting has also strained Hungary's relations with Germany, as a planned meeting between the foreign ministers of both countries was canceled.

While some EU officials have distanced themselves from Orban's trip, he views it as an important step towards resuming dialogue and finding a peaceful solution to the conflict.