Szijjarto met Lavrov in Moscow and made another call for "peace"

Hungary Remains Committed to Peace Talks Amidst Ukraine Conflict, Foreign Minister Visits Moscow

Moscow, Russia – On December 2, 2024, Hungarian Foreign Minister Péter Szijjártó arrived in Moscow for critical discussions with his Russian counterpart, Sergei Lavrov. The visit underscores Hungary’s persistent stance on seeking a peaceful resolution to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.

Szijjártó, sharing updates on his Facebook page, affirmed Hungary’s dedication to peace. "Hungary is on the side of peace," he stated. Reiterating a consistent message from Hungarian officials, Szijjártó emphasized the belief that "the war in Ukraine cannot be resolved on the battlefield, and a solution must be found at the negotiating table." He stressed the crucial need for dialogue, stating, "Hungary supports dialogue because this is the only way to have a chance for the success of the peacemaking mission."

This visit comes after a series of controversial moves by Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, who traveled to Moscow and met with Russian President Vladimir Putin in July 2024. This action sparked significant backlash within the European Union.

It also follows the announcement of new "peacekeeping" measures by Hungary in September 2024, further solidifying the nation’s role in seeking a diplomatic solution to the conflict.

photo: Facebook/Péter Szijjártó

Hungary’s actions highlight a complex dynamic within Europe, balancing its support for Ukrainian sovereignty with a strong desire for a negotiated peace. The outcome of Szijjártó’s discussions with Lavrov could have significant implications for the ongoing peace efforts, potentially influencing the trajectory of the conflict itself.