In a bold move that has sparked controversy, Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban traveled to Moscow to meet with Russian President Vladimir Putin, just days after Hungary assumed the rotating presidency of the European Union (EU). The visit, which drew sharp disavowals from Brussels, marks a clear departure from the EU's collective foreign policy.

Prior to Orban's arrival, the EU's top diplomat, Josep Borrell, emphasized that the Hungarian leader's trip is not an official EU matter and is carried out solely within the framework of bilateral relations between Hungary and Russia. Despite this clarification, Orban's visit is seen as a diplomatic triumph for Putin, who has repeatedly accused NATO nations, particularly the United States, of prolonging the conflict in Ukraine.

Welcoming Orban at the Kremlin, Putin acknowledged his guest's leadership role in the EU and expressed hope for discussions on bilateral relations and the Ukrainian crisis. The two leaders engaged in a three-hour-long meeting behind closed doors, where they reportedly discussed "the shortest path to peace." However, from Moscow's perspective, this path typically implies Ukraine capitulating to Russia's demands to annex a significant portion of its territory.

During the meeting, Putin reiterated his demands for a cessation of hostilities, including Ukraine's surrender of the disputed territories. He also put forth a new claim, stating that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is unwilling to halt the fighting because it would force the country to end martial law and hold presidential elections. However, Putin offered no evidence to support this analysis.

Orban framed his meeting with Putin as an opportunity to work towards peace in a time when Europe needs it the most. However, many European officials and leaders have dismissed Orban's role as a peacemaker, particularly on behalf of the EU.

Orban's visit to Moscow follows his recent visit to Ukraine, during which he suggested that Ukraine should agree to a ceasefire with Russia as a precursor to negotiations. However, Zelensky has put forward a 10-point peace plan that does not include a cessation of hostilities while Russian troops remain on Ukrainian soil.

As Hungary assumes the rotating presidency of the Council of the EU, Orban's actions and divergent stance on Ukraine have raised concerns. He has repeatedly diverged from the EU and NATO leaders by asking Ukraine to consider concessions to Russia. Orban has also impeded efforts to aid Ukraine and advance its application to join the EU.

With Orban positioning himself as an advocate for peace, critics argue that his actions may undermine the EU's united front against Russia's aggression in Ukraine. It remains to be seen how this visit will impact Hungary's presidency and the EU's stance on the Ukrainian crisis moving forward.