Orbán calls on EU to restore diplomatic relations with Russia

In the letter, Orbán provided his brief assessment of recent talks with leaders from Ukraine, Russia, China, Türkiye, and Donald Trump, along with "some proposals for your consideration."

"Overall, it can be said that the intensity of the military conflict will radically increase in the near future," he said.

In his letter, Orbán urges the EU to negotiate with China about a peace conference, restore diplomatic relations with Russia, and pursue a political offensive in the Global South, whose "respect we have lost due to our stance on the war in Ukraine."

He then details his discussions in the United States, which took place before the assassination attempt on Donald Trump. Orbán also criticizes current US President Joe Biden.

"The current president is making enormous efforts to stay in the race. It is clear that he is unable to change the current pro-war U.S. policy, and therefore no new policy can be expected from him," Orbán said.

Hungary's EU presidency and Orbán's 'peace Mission'

On July 1, Hungary, led by Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, known for his pro-Russian views, assumed the six-month presidency of the Council of the European Union. Just days later, Orbán embarked on a series of visits as part of his so-called "peacekeeping mission."

On July 2, he visited Kyiv, where he called on President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to cease resistance to Russian aggression, lay down arms, and enter negotiations.

On July 5, Orbán arrived in Moscow for talks with President Putin and then proceeded on his "peace mission" to China.

Orbán's trips sparked sharp criticism from EU leaders, as they were not coordinated with Brussels. Additionally, he did not have the authority to speak on behalf of the entire bloc.

In response to Orbán's actions, six EU countries announced their intention to boycott Council meetings during Hungary's presidency. Furthermore, EU foreign ministers plan to ignore a summit in Budapest scheduled for August.