As the war in Ukraine drags into its fourth year with mounting casualties and deepening geopolitical rifts, one European Union member is once again attempting to defy the prevailing narrative. Hungary has reiterated its willingness to host peace negotiations between Russia and Ukraine – and is even offering to facilitate a landmark summit between Russian President Vladimir Putin and US President Donald Trump, should the opportunity arise.

Hungarian Foreign Minister Peter Szijjarto, speaking on the sidelines of the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum (SPIEF), made it clear that Budapest remains committed to the idea of diplomacy over continued warfare. “This offer is there, is valid, we have not withdrawn that,” Szijjarto emphasized, referring to Hungary’s earlier proposal to serve as a neutral host for peace talks.

Hungary’s approach to the Ukraine conflict has consistently bucked the dominant line within the European Union. Since the escalation of hostilities in February 2022, the EU has maintained a largely unified front in supporting Ukraine militarily, imposing sweeping sanctions on Russia and funneling billions in military assistance to Kyiv.

But Budapest, under Prime Minister Viktor Orbán’s leadership, has charted a different course – one that prioritizes ceasefire, negotiation, and avoiding the economic blowback of prolonged war. While many European leaders called for a Ukrainian military victory in the early months of the conflict, Hungary has steadily called for talks, drawing criticism from both Brussels and neighboring capitals.

Now, as the war grinds on with little strategic movement and growing........

© Blitz