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We know that our history has had different periods, but our relations are based on pragmatism, on a pragmatic approach to the development of bilateral ties...
Russian President Vladimir Putin and Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban held talks in the Kremlin on Friday, focusing on energy cooperation, the war in Ukraine and the future of bilateral relations.
Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov, Presidential Advisor Yuri Ushakov and Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak, as well as Hungarian Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade Peter Szijjarto, also attended the meeting, which marked the 14th meeting between the two leaders.
Orban, during a joint press conference before the meeting, stated that Hungary's energy supply is currently, and will remain in the future, based on energy supplies coming from Russia. He praised the stability and predictability of Russian energy supplies and expressed Hungary's interest in continuing bilateral cooperation in the energy sector. He said he would discuss this issue in detail with Putin.
Referring to the issue of the war in Ukraine, Orban stressed that it has a strong impact on Hungary. "We are suffering significant economic losses. Military operations are blocking economic growth throughout Europe, including here in Hungary," he stressed.
Orban stressed that Hungary is interested in achieving peace, something he had already emphasized during previous bilateral meetings, and expressed hope that the peace proposals currently on the table will lead to a ceasefire and, ultimately, to peace.
"Mr. President, you know that we pursue a sovereign foreign policy. Hungary's relations with Russia are ongoing, we cooperate in important areas and we have not abandoned cooperation in any area due to external pressure," Orban said.
He reaffirmed that Hungary is ready to serve as a venue for peace talks and contribute to their success.
Putin thanked Orban for his positive reaction to the idea of a possible US-Russia summit to be held in Hungary.
"This was Trump's proposal. He immediately said: 'We have good relations with Hungary, and you also have a good relationship with Viktor, so I suggest this possibility.'"
"Of course, we welcomed this with pleasure," Putin said, adding that "if during our negotiations we reach the point of choosing Budapest as the location, I will be very pleased and I would like to thank you for your willingness to help."
In his welcoming speech, Putin expressed satisfaction that bilateral relations have been maintained and continue to develop despite today's difficulties.
"We know that our history has had different periods, but our relations are based on pragmatism, on a pragmatic approach to the development of bilateral ties," he said, adding, "we have known each other personally for a long time and I know that in your work you primarily represent the interests of your homeland, Hungary, and the Hungarian people."
He noted that on some issues, including international ones, the views of the two sides occasionally differ, but the atmosphere between them allows for an honest discussion on any issue. "We are aware of your balanced position on the Ukrainian issue," he told Orbán.
Putin lamented that bilateral trade had fallen by 23 percent last year, largely due to external restrictions. As a positive sign, he noted that growth this year has already exceeded 7 percent.
"Our cooperation in the field of energy is very good, but even here there are questions and problems that we need to discuss," Putin said.
Reactions from Europe
The meeting between Putin and Orban in Moscow caused controversy. "He went without consulting us, but we are not surprised. He has not played for the European national team for some time and the visit fits into that context," said German Chancellor Friedrich Merz.
According to Vsquare, Orban's trip, confirmed by a source "with direct knowledge of the details of the trip," was not preceded by any coordination with EU and NATO partners, nor with Washington.
The same diplomatic sources cited by the bulletin reported surprise and embarrassment in messages exchanged yesterday by representatives of Western governments and alliances after the news was published.
The mission was reportedly long-planned but was treated confidentially and would represent the usual annual Orban-Putin meeting, which has continued even after Russia's invasion of Ukraine.
This is Orban's fourth visit to Putin since 2022 and his fifteenth overall. According to a Vsquare source, Orban may present the mission as a step towards reviving the unpredictable plan for a "peace" summit in Budapest involving Putin and Donald Trump.
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