Hungarian PM Orbán's Diplomatic Efforts on Ukraine

Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban's recent visits to Moscow and Beijing, framed as 'peace missions' to address the Ukraine conflict, have sparked criticism and boycotts from some EU leaders who accuse Orban of misusing Hungary's EU presidency. Orban's engagements with Russian President Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping, along with proposals sent to EU leaders on resolving the Ukraine conflict, have raised concerns about him acting on behalf of the EU without authorization. Despite Orban's efforts for peace talks, EU and NATO officials emphasized he lacked a mandate for negotiations. The controversy surrounding Orban's diplomatic activities comes as Hungary holds the rotating presidency of the EU Council, impacting EU policies and responses during this period.