Estonian Prime Minister Kaja Kallas: “In Moscow, Viktor Orbán in no way represents the EU or the EU’s positions. He is exploiting the EU presidency position to sow confusion. The EU is united, clearly behind Ukraine and against Russian aggression.”
Finnish Prime Minister Petteri Orpo: “Disturbing news about Orban’s visit to Moscow. It is clear that he has no mandate to negotiate or discuss on behalf of the EU. His visit would show disregard for the duties of the EU Presidency and undermines interests of the European Union.”
Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson: “Irresponsible and disloyal of Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán to use Hungary’s EU Presidency to visit Moscow and President Putin. It sends the wrong signal to the outside world and is an insult to the Ukrainian people’s fight for their freedom. Viktor Orbán stands alone in this. He does not speak for the European Union and not for other EU Heads of State or Government.”
Czech Prime Minister Petr Fiala: “Viktor Orbán does not represent our or EU interests in Moscow. Nor does he have any mandate to negotiate on our behalf. The Czech position is clear: Putin is the aggressor, we stand with Ukraine.”
Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen: “PM Orban’s visit to Moscow is deeply concerning. Orban does not speak on behalf of the EU. Nothing to talk about as long as Russia continues to attack Ukraine.”
Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani: “He is going to Moscow as Hungarian prime minister. I don’t think it’s the time to visit Russia, but everyone can do what they want. The EU is in favour of peace, but not in favour of surrendering to Putin: It must be peace, not surrender. Putin’s proposal (to end the war) is a sham. We welcome dialogue and discussions, but we will continue to help Ukraine.”
