Viktor Orbán

The EU is considering voluntary contributions to the European Peace Fund to circumvent Hungary's veto. This would make it possible to provide assistance to Ukraine without the unanimous support of all EU countries.

A rally of thousands of people was held in Budapest against the bias of state television. Protesters from the opposition party TISZA demanded independent public media and criticized the “propaganda machine” of the Orban government.

Ukraine's Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiga called on Hungary to support the opening of negotiating clusters on EU accession. The parties also agreed to develop border infrastructure and hold a meeting of the Joint Intergovernmental Commission.

The Foreign Ministers of Ukraine and Hungary paid special attention to Ukraine's peace initiatives. Sibiga thanked Szijjarto for participating in the First Peace Summit and expressed hope for Hungary's continued support of Ukrainian initiatives.

Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiga held talks with his Hungarian counterpart Peter Szijjarto. The issues discussed included the war, the rights of the Hungarian minority, and countering Russian disinformation.

Austria is holding parliamentary elections. The right-wing radical AfD, which criticizes aid to Ukraine, and the current chancellor's AfP, which supports Kyiv, but more moderately than other EU countries, are in the running.

Piotr Pawel believes that part of the Ukrainian territory may temporarily remain under Russian occupation. He predicts that the war could drag on for years, with its end “somewhere in the middle.

The Danube has overflowed its banks in Budapest, threatening to flood tourist spots. Flooding is expected to peak on Saturday, with authorities erecting protective structures and closing some subway stations.

Penalty imposed for longstanding restrictions on the right to asylum, which Hungary refuses to lift.

The Hungarian Foreign Minister said that the inclusion of Russians and Belarusians in the “national card” program does not pose a risk to the Schengen area. The EU is demanding explanations for this decision from Hungary.

Belarusian dictator Lukashenko calls for a negotiated end to the war in Ukraine. He claims that the conflict benefits only "high-ranking people of American origin" who want "Ukrainians and Russians to destroy each other.

Viktor Orban has created a new far-right group in the European Parliament, strengthening his influence. This could undermine EU unity on key issues, especially support for Ukraine.

The EU demands that Hungary explain its decision to ease visa rules for citizens of Russia and Belarus. EU Commissioner Ylva Johansson expressed concern about potential espionage and security risks for the bloc.

Republican lawmakers are worried about a split with Trump on key security issues. They are concerned about his stance on the war in Ukraine, NATO, and the defense of Taiwan from China.

Hungary has informed the EU of the end of its 'peace mission' in Ukraine after criticism from the Union. However, European capitals doubt the sincerity of this statement and do not rule out a possible resumption of the 'mission' by Orban.

Hungary has reportedly allowed Russian and Belarusian citizens to obtain a 'national card' to work in the country for 2 years. This has raised concerns in the EU about the possible infiltration of Russian spies.

Poland's deputy foreign minister suggested that Hungary should withdraw from the EU and NATO and form an alliance with Putin because of its constant criticism of these organizations. He also recalled Hungary's blocking of EU funds for Poland.

Hungary borrowed €1 billion from three Chinese banks in the spring of 2024. This is the largest loan in the country's history, to be repaid within three years, and is aimed at financing infrastructure and energy.

EU countries will discuss extending sanctions on Russian assets to secure a $50 billion G7 loan to Ukraine. Options for an indefinite extension or for 3 years are being considered.

Borrell supports Zelenskyy's intention to hold a second peace summit, but Russia's participation should not be on Putin's terms. The EU and Ukraine discussed the next steps after the Peace Summit in Switzerland and cooperation with global partners.

The President of Ukraine called for preserving unity in Europe despite Putin's attempts to create a split. Zelenskyy emphasized the importance of joint actions and determination of European countries to ensure peace.

Trump has hinted at a willingness to ease or lift sanctions against Russia as part of his "deal" to end the war in Ukraine, saying he does not like sanctions and considers them useful only in certain cases, such as with Iran.

Due to Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban's uncoordinated visits to Moscow and Beijing during Hungary's presidency of the EU Council, some countries are considering boycotting ministerial meetings or handing over the presidency to another country.

Russian Foreign Minister Lavrov and his Hungarian counterpart Szijjarto discussed the situation around Ukraine and bilateral cooperation during a meeting in New York.

Hungary cannot be stripped of its EU Council presidency, despite Orban's controversial visits to China and Russia, but EU countries can publicly boycott his policies.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen canceled the visit of the EC board to Budapest due to recent events related to Hungary's presidency of the EU Council, and the EC will be represented at informal meetings of the Council only at the level of senior civil servants.

President Zelenskiy said he does not see Western countries pushing Ukraine to negotiate with russia, but acknowledged that some leaders would like to do so.

Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban presents the "Orban Plan" for peace talks to EU leaders after visiting Ukraine, Russia, and China on a "peacekeeping mission.

Attorneys for former US President Donald Trump have formally asked a judge to overturn his conviction and indictment in the case of a hidden cash payment to porn actress Stormy Daniels.

Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban meets with former US President Donald Trump in Florida to discuss "ways to establish peace" in Ukraine.