Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban has informed European leaders that former US President Donald Trump is willing to mediate peace talks between Russia and Ukraine, should he be re-elected. This statement was made in a letter addressed to European Council President Charles Michel and all European Union leaders, following Orban's meetings with Trump, Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping.
Orban, who has positioned himself as a possible peacemaker in the ongoing conflict, said Trump has detailed plans to intervene immediately after his possible election victory. However, this position contrasts with most EU leaders who have expressed unwavering support for Ukraine in its efforts to resist Russia's military advances.
The Hungarian prime minister also suggested that Trump might reconsider the current financial aid provided to Ukraine by the US, which would lead to a potential increase in the EU's financial burden. Trump, known for his bold statements on foreign policy, has previously criticized US military aid to Ukraine and claimed he could resolve the war in a single day.
Despite his contentious meetings with Putin, Xi and Trump, Orban has urged EU leaders to seize the opportunity to start a new chapter in EU politics, encouraging efforts to reduce tensions and start peace talks in the conflict between Russia and Ukraine.
However, Orban's actions have drawn criticism from EU lawmakers, who accuse him of misrepresenting and undermining the EU's position on foreign policy. A letter signed by 63 European lawmakers calls for the suspension of Hungary's voting rights in the European Council, arguing that Orban has abused his position and caused significant damage through his meetings.