EU Criticizes Orban's Diplomatic Tour Amid Kyiv Tensions

Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban has embarked on a controversial 'peace mission,' visiting Kyiv, Moscow, and Beijing to discuss the Ukraine conflict. His meetings with Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky have drawn sharp criticism from EU leaders, who emphasize that Orban does not represent the EU's stance on the war. EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell and other officials have rebuked Orban, accusing him of undermining the EU's unified position against Russian aggression. Orban, however, argues that Hungary is uniquely positioned to mediate between the conflicting parties. His subsequent visit to China aims to discuss mutual interests with President Xi Jinping, further complicating his diplomatic endeavors. Meanwhile, Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico expressed admiration for Orban's peace initiatives but could not join due to health issues.