Zelenskyy says he discussed with Orban 'most fundamental issues'

MOSCOW

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said on Tuesday he discussed with Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban "the most fundamental issues" of bilateral relations, including trade, cross–border cooperation, infrastructure and energy issues.

"We also talked about the humanitarian sphere – about everything that concerns the lives of our people in Ukraine and Hungary," he said on Telegram.

Zelenskyy said this dialogue may become "the basis for a new bilateral document" between the two states, which will regulate all the scope of relations and be based on a "mirror approach," he noted.

Orban was in Kyiv on Tuesday, his first visit since Russia launched “special military operation” in February 2022. It came as Hungary took over the six-month rotating presidency of the European Union the prior day.

For his part, Orban invited Zelenskyy to consider the possibility of a cease-fire aimed at starting peace talks with Russia.

"We appreciate President Zelenskyy's peace initiatives and have asked him to consider a cease-fire before starting negotiations," he said.

The Hungarian leader stressed that "peace is important for all countries" in Europe, pledging his country's contribution to the settlement of the Ukrainian conflict during its presidency.

He expressed hope that his visit to Kyiv would serve to resolve bilateral issues, including those related to the rights of the Hungarian minority in Transcarpathia.

"We want to improve relations between our countries, we want to sign a broad cooperation agreement with Ukraine, similar to the agreements that we have with other neighbors of Hungary," Orban said.

He stressed Hungary will continue to provide assistance to Ukrainian refugees, is ready to contribute to the modernization of the Ukrainian economy.

- Kremlin's reaction

Commenting on Orban's visit to Kyiv, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov expressed Moscow's lack of expectations from the event, noting that the Hungarian side did not consult Russia regarding the travel plans.

"It is evident that Hungary, currently holding the presidency of the Council of the EU, must fulfill its obligations. Therefore, in this instance, I believe Brussels' interests will take precedence over Hungary's national interests," he added.

Peskov emphasized that "Orban is recognized as a politician adept at vigorously defending his country's interests."