Orbán Reaffirms Support for Revised U.S. Peace Plan, Suggests Ukraine as Buffer State
Nyíregyháza, Hungary – Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán continues too advocate for a peace resolution to the Ukraine-Russia conflict based on a revised version of an initial 28-point American plan, despite European criticism that the original proposal was overly accommodating to Moscow. Orbán believes this plan, altered after European feedback and Ukrainian negotiations, remains the most realistic path forward, and envisions a post-war scenario where Russia gradually reintegrates into global economic processes and sanctions are lifted.
Speaking at a rally of his Fidesz party over the weekend, Orbán indicated the plan involves Ukraine relinquishing territory and functioning as a buffer state. He argued Russia’s aggression stemmed from security concerns following the dissolution of the Soviet Union and NATO’s eastward expansion, stating, “The Russians have the right to their own security and do not want to be neighbors with NATO.” Orbán also accused the EU of prolonging the war for financial benefit, claiming Western nations profit from the conflict while Ukraine bears the cost in lives.
Orbán recently met with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow on Friday, expressing hope that Budapest could host peace negotiations between Russia and the United States. He reiterated his call for a ceasefire, contrasting it with what he described as Europe’s desire for continued conflict.