Orban Admits Zelensky Rejected His Russia-Favourable Peace Plan

Prime Minister of Hungary Viktor Orban has acknowledged that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky dismissed his proposed ceasefire plan, which was favourable to Russia.

The plan, aimed at freezing the current frontline between Ukraine and Russia, was met with scepticism by Zelensky, who questioned its logic.

In statements made to the press following the bilateral talks, Orban revealed that he suggested an immediate cessation of hostilities along the existing line of contact with Russian forces. Orban believed this approach would expedite peace negotiations. He noted that while he did not insist on his initiative, he considered the Ukrainian arguments and accepted them.

In an interview the Hungarian leader confirmed Zelensky’s rejection of his “immediate ceasefire” idea. According to Orban, President Zelensky expressed doubts about the logic of Orban’s plan, citing Ukraine’s negative experience with previous ceasefire attempts with Russia. “Such ceasefires have not been beneficial for Ukraine,” Orban recounted Zelensky’s words.

Following the conclusion of the leaders’ meeting in Kyiv, Hungary’s Foreign Minister called his Russian counterpart, Sergey Lavrov.

Background and Implications

The proposal from Orban, a known advocate of closer ties with Russia, aimed to halt the ongoing conflict by freezing the current positions of the military forces. This suggestion aligns with Hungary’s historical stance of pursuing more conciliatory policies towards Russia, often at odds with the broader European Union and NATO strategies, which favour stronger support for Ukraine and pressure on Russia.

Orban’s proposal and its rejection highlight the continuing friction between Hungary and Ukraine regarding the best approach to achieving peace. Ukraine’s scepticism towards ceasefires with Russia stems from a history of such agreements being used by Russia to regroup and strengthen its positions, rather than paving the way for a genuine and lasting peace.

The Hungarian-Russian Connection

Orban’s visit to Ukraine and subsequent outreach to Russian officials underscore Hungary’s unique position within the EU. Hungary has frequently been a dissenting voice in the EU’s united front against Russia, advocating for the lifting of sanctions and engaging in economic deals with Russian entities.

Hungary’s foreign policy under Orban has often been characterised by a balancing act between its commitments to the EU and NATO, and its national interests, which include significant energy dependencies on Russia. This has led to a complex and sometimes contentious relationship with both its Western allies and its Eastern neighbour.

Ukraine’s Stance

For Ukraine, the rejection of Orban’s plan is consistent with its long-standing policy of seeking a comprehensive and durable resolution to the conflict that ensures its territorial integrity and sovereignty. The Ukrainian government has repeatedly stated that any peace agreement must include the withdrawal of Russian troops and the restoration of control over all its territories.

Zelensky’s dismissal of the ceasefire proposal reflects a broader strategy of maintaining military pressure and seeking international support to achieve a favourable outcome. Ukraine’s experience with past ceasefires, which have often been violated by Russian forces, reinforces its cautious approach to any agreements that might allow Russia to consolidate its gains.

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