Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban's recent visit to Moscow to meet with Russian President Vladimir Putin has drawn widespread criticism and caused outrage among European Union leaders. Orban's visit, the first by an EU leader since April 2022, has been met with particular concern as Hungary has just taken over the rotating presidency of the Council of the European Union.

During their meeting, Putin and Orban discussed ways to bring an end to the conflict in Ukraine. Putin reiterated Russia's willingness to engage in political and diplomatic discussions but emphasized that the terms outlined by Russia thus far remain unchanged, terms that Ukraine and its Western allies deem unacceptable. One of Ukraine's key demands is the return of its pre-2014 territory.

Orban's press secretary, Zoltan Kovacs, emphasized the "special significance" of the visit given that it occurred after Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. This meeting marks the 14th time the two leaders have met since 2009, solidifying Orban's reputation as Putin's staunchest ally within the EU. Orban has been advocating for a ceasefire rather than military support for Ukraine.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen expressed her disapproval of Orban's decision to visit Moscow, stating that "appeasement will not stop" Putin and emphasizing the need for unity and determination among EU member states to achieve a comprehensive and lasting peace in Ukraine.

Ukraine's foreign ministry also criticized Orban's trip, calling it a decision made without approval or coordination with Ukraine and stressing the importance of adhering to the principle of "no agreements on Ukraine without Ukraine." They reiterated President Zelensky's peace plan as the only realistic approach to restore a just peace.

Orban's visit to Moscow came shortly after his trip to Kyiv, where he urged Zelensky to consider a ceasefire to expedite peace talks with Russia. However, Zelensky firmly rejected this proposal, highlighting the differing approaches between the Hungarian prime minister and the Ukrainian government.

Orban's controversial visit to Moscow raises concerns among EU leaders and Ukraine alike, as they stress the importance of unity and diplomatic efforts to resolve the conflict in Ukraine.