PM Orbán praised the stability and predictability of Russian energy deliveries and underlined Hungary’s strong interest in maintaining bilateral cooperation in the sector. He noted that energy issues would be among the key topics in his meeting with President Putin.
“Ukraine is our neighbor, so the war has a strong impact on Hungary. We are suffering significant economic losses. The military operations are blocking economic growth across Europe, and in Hungary as well,” the prime minister said.
Marking his 14th meeting with the Russian leader as head of government, PM Orbán expressed hope that both sides would continue strengthening cooperation.
“We pursue a sovereign foreign policy. Hungary’s contacts with Russia are continuous, and we have not abandoned cooperation in any area due to external pressure,” he emphasized.
PM Orbán reiterated that Hungary is committed to efforts aimed at achieving peace. He expressed hope that existing proposals would lead to a ceasefire and a political settlement. “Hungary is ready to host peace talks and contribute to their success,” he added.
President Putin thanked PM Orbán for the positive response to the idea—initiated by U.S. President Donald Trump—of holding a possible American–Russian summit in Hungary.
“This was Donald’s proposal. He immediately said that we have good relations with Hungary, and that you, Viktor, also have good relations with him. Naturally, we welcomed this,” Putin said. He added that if negotiations progress to the point where Budapest becomes the preferred venue, “I will be very pleased, and grateful for your readiness to help.”
The Russian president said he was satisfied that bilateral relations have endured despite global challenges. “Our relations are built on pragmatism and on the pragmatic development of bilateral ties,” he noted, adding that PM Orbán consistently represents “the interests of Hungary and the Hungarian people.”
Putin acknowledged that while the two countries sometimes differ on international issues, the atmosphere of cooperation allows for “honest discussion of any topic.” He also highlighted Hungary’s “balanced stance” on the conflict in Ukraine.
The Russian president reported that bilateral trade fell by 23 percent last year due to external restrictions, but noted that this year it has already grown by more than 7 percent. “Our cooperation in the energy sector is very good, although there are issues we must discuss,” he said.