Orban Declares Russia Victorious in Ukraine Conflict

BUDAPEST - Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban stated on Tuesday that Russia has emerged victorious in the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. This declaration comes just ahead of a summit scheduled between U.S. President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin.

Orban, who has been in power since 2010, has faced criticism from various European leaders regarding his government's relationship with Russia and his stance against military assistance for Ukraine. His administration is currently dealing with economic challenges exacerbated by inflation.

Maintaining close ties with Putin since Russia's invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, Orban notably diverged from other European Union leaders by not endorsing a recent joint statement advocating for Ukraine's autonomy in determining its future.

In an interview, Orban remarked that the situation is no longer an ongoing war, asserting that Ukraine has lost. He raised the question of when the Western nations, which have supported Ukraine, would acknowledge this outcome and its implications.

Hungary, reliant on Russian energy supplies, has refrained from supplying weapons to Ukraine. Orban has also expressed strong opposition to Ukraine's potential EU membership, arguing that it would adversely affect Hungarian farmers and the broader economy.

The Prime Minister criticized Europe for missing an opportunity to engage in negotiations with Putin during the previous U.S. administration, cautioning that the continent's future decisions may be made without its participation. He emphasized the importance of being included in discussions, stating that those not at the negotiating table risk being disregarded.

Orban's comments illustrate the complex geopolitical landscape in Europe, as Hungary navigates its relationship with Russia while balancing its commitments within the EU.