PoliticsWar Hungary’s “peacekeeping mission” continues as Orban speaks with Putin for an hour about his US visit on his way to visit Erdogan in Turkey. Thursday, December 12, 2024 
Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban, who recently flew to the US to discuss Ukraine with Donald Trump and his team, spoke for an hour with Russian dictator Putin on December 11. “We are taking all possible diplomatic steps in favor of a ceasefire and peace talks,” he noted. The Kremlin reported that the parties discussed the countries’ economic cooperation and the war in Ukraine. Orban said he was interested “in promoting a joint search for ways to resolve the crisis politically and diplomatically.” In turn, Putin complained about Kyiv’s “destructive line” that allegedly excludes the possibility of a peaceful conflict settlement. President Zelensky once again emphasized that achieving real peace “requires the determination of the US, the unity of Europe, and the determination of all partners to adhere to the goals and principles of the UN Charter.” Orban will continue his diplomatic junket with a visit to Turkey to discuss current international affairs, the war in Ukraine, and the conflict in the Middle East with Erdogan.