Hungary’s Foreign Minister Peter Szijjarto has reaffirmed the country’s commitment to mediating peace talks between Ukraine and Russia, emphasizing that the offer to host such negotiations remains open. Speaking at the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum, Szijjarto highlighted Hungary’s role as a mediator within the EU, where most member states have prioritized military support for Ukraine. The minister also mentioned Hungary’s readiness to organize a summit between Russian President Vladimir Putin and former U.S. President Donald Trump if requested, underscoring the improving U.S.-Russia relations, which Szijjarto believes could be beneficial for Central Europe. His remarks have sparked discussions about Hungary’s diplomatic position, as several European nations have now shifted their stance to advocate for a ceasefire, a move that critics argue diminishes their credibility.
The political landscape is further complicated by Russia’s recent proposals for a conditional ceasefire, which Ukraine has rejected. Russian President Vladimir Putin has expressed openness to finalizing a peace agreement, although he has cautioned that Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelensky, whose presidential term expired last year, is not legally authorized to sign any treaty. This issue raises concerns in Moscow about the legitimacy of any agreement Zelensky might sign. Meanwhile, Zelensky has maintained that direct talks with Putin are necessary to achieve a meaningful resolution, highlighting the ongoing challenges to reaching a definitive peace agreement. As diplomatic efforts continue, the role of key players such as Hungary, the U.S., and Russia remains pivotal in shaping the future of the conflict.