Hungary’s Prime Minister Viktor Orban Talks to Russian President Vladimir Putin
Hungary‘s Prime Minister Viktor Orban spoke with Russian President Vladimir Putin on December 11. The call was initiated by Budapest, and it marked Putin’s second conversation with a European leader in recent weeks.
The two leaders discussed the war in Ukraine and other topics. Hungary has maintained good relations with Russia despite its invasion of Ukraine. Orban expressed interest in finding a political solution to the crisis and mentioned his contacts with Western leaders.
Orban said on social media, “I had an hour-long phone conversation this morning with President Putin. These are the most dangerous weeks of the Russia-Ukraine war.”
The Kremlin stated that Putin discussed the current situation around Ukraine and the destructive policies of the Kyiv regime. The two also talked about energy and economic cooperation.
Hungary’s prime minister was the first EU leader to visit Putin in Moscow in July, despite Western efforts to isolate him.
Russia has been facing challenges in its relations with neighboring countries. Moscow cut funding to Abkhazia after its local council voted against a controversial investment agreement.
The war in Ukraine continues to affect civilians. President Volodymyr Zelensky said that the Russian military is using a record number of soldiers in battles and assaults.
Ukraine’s finance minister, Serhii Marchenko, stated that they have enough funds and resources to resist Russia for at least half of 2025.
Russian attacks across Ukraine killed eight civilians and injured 57 over the past day. A Ukrainian missile struck a boiler plant in Russia’s Rostov Oblast, damaging critical infrastructure.
The international community is discussing potential sanctions on Russia. Sources told Bloomberg that avenues are being explored, including sanctions on Russia’s “shadow fleet.”
The US Treasury Department announced it will provide $20 billion in loan assistance to Ukraine, contributing to a broader initiative supported by G7 countries.