Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban has suggested that talks between U.S. President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin could lead to Russia’s reintegration into Europe’s economic, security, and energy systems.
“If I were to comment in one word, I would say ‘Hallelujah.’ This is what we have been waiting for,” Orban remarked, commenting on Trump’s move to end the war in Ukraine.
Orban, who has maintained close ties with Putin, noted that Trump’s actions appeared to justify Hungary’s position, as reported by Politico.
“If the American president comes, creates peace, and a deal is made, then I think Russia will be reintegrated into the global economy, into the European security system, and even into the European energy system. This would give a huge boost to the Hungarian economy. It’s a big opportunity, we would gain a lot from peace,” Orban said.
Regarding Europe’s exclusion from Ukraine negotiations, Orban stated that international politics are “tough, based on interests, often merciless.”
“You don’t automatically get a seat at the negotiation table – you get one because you’ve stood up for yourself, fought your way in, and are needed. It’s not clear why Europe should be given a seat at such a table,” he concluded.
