Orban says Ukraine should become a «buffer state»

Orban says Ukraine should return to the status of a «buffer state»

Prime Minister of Hungary Viktor Orban has made another controversial statement, claiming that the only way to end the war is for Ukraine to return to the status of a «buffer state». He said this in an interview, fragments of which were published by the Hungarian and European press.

«Orban's »balance of power"

Orban has said that he believes the war is ongoing because of the different visions of the conflict by the West and Russia. He insists that a «balance of power» should be established on the European continent, which will supposedly ensure stability.

«The only possible way out is for Ukraine to return to the status of a buffer state.», - He said.

Accusations against European leaders

Orban also accused Western politicians of «fuelling the war» for their own financial interests. According to him, European leaders are allegedly «benefiting» from the escalation, while the Hungarian government is seeking peace.

He reiterated the thesis that Budapest has been voicing for over a year: The EU and NATO should stop supporting Ukraine with weapons and move on to «peace talks».

Context.

Orban's statement came amid heightened discussions in the EU about the future of the security package for Ukraine and the role of Budapest, which regularly blocks decisions favourable to Kyiv.
Hungary's position traditionally coincides with Russia's rhetoric, which has caused sharp criticism among its European partners.