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Putin–Trump Talks in Budapest? Orban Pushes Plan to Mediate Russia–US Talks on War
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Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán announced that he plans to speak with Russian leader Vladimir Putin, as preparations are underway for a potential meeting between Putin and US President Donald Trump in Budapest, The Guardian reported on October 17.
Trump confirmed plans to meet with Putin in Hungary to explore options for ending the war in Ukraine. Orbán, who maintains close ties with both leaders, described the upcoming talks as focused on peace and told state radio that the meeting could take place within two weeks.
“Last night I gave orders to set up an organising committee, we have set out the most important tasks and preparations have started,” Orbán said.
Hungarian Prime Minister noted that, while there may be several locations outside Europe suitable for a meeting between the US and Russian leaders, he believes “Budapest is essentially the only place in Europe today where such a meeting could be held.”
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He reiterated Hungary’s position, saying, “Hungary is almost the only pro-peace country … For three years, we have been the only country that has consistently, openly, loudly, and actively advocated for peace.”
According to Magyar Nemzet on October 17, Orbán stressed that the key to the upcoming dialogue is staying focused on its main purpose.
“These talks are not about us, but about the fact that Budapest is now a suitable venue for a peace summit—this is a political achievement, but the goal is peace. In politics, knowledge matters a lot, but what matters most is perseverance and humility,” he said.
Earlier, President Donald Trump announced that he and Russian President Vladimir Putin had agreed to dispatch senior advisors for preliminary talks set to take place next week. The US delegation will be led by Secretary of State Marco Rubio.
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