Germany and other EU member states are putting pressure on Hungary to prioritize Ukraine aid, following Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban's controversial visits to Moscow and China. At a finance ministers meeting in Brussels, most member states called on Hungary to prioritize Ukraine aid, with German Finance Minister Christian Lindner criticising Orban's 'solo efforts'.
Hungary's EU presidency has faced a boycott from several countries, with Germany considering sending only lower-ranking officials to Budapest. The European Parliament has also condemned Orban's visits, calling them a violation of EU foreign policy.
The European Commission has boycotted informal ministerial meetings organised by Hungary's EU presidency. Despite opposition from Brussels and Washington, Orbán remains determined to pursue his peace mission and has sought closer relations with China.
Hungary and China have elevated their bilateral relations to an 'all-weather comprehensive strategic partnership' during Chinese President Xi Jinping's visit to Budapest. Orbán aims to act as a mediator and peacemaker in Eastern Europe and strengthen Eurasian integration between Europe and East Asia.
