The Hungarian Prime Minister assessed in an interview with the German press that after NATO's expansion to the east, Ukraine served as a neutral buffer zone between NATO and Russia. He said this ensured Europe's security and balance from a defense point of view. “However, today both sides accuse each other of disturbing this situation,” he added.
What solution does Viktor Orban propose in the context of Ukraine?
What does Orban think about NATO's expansion to the east?
What elements should be agreed between NATO and Russia according to Orban?
What is the importance of the 28-point US peace plan in Orban's opinion?
Orban concluded that the only lasting solution would be to make Ukraine a buffer state again within the limits agreed at a future peace conference when creating a post-war system. At the same time, he stressed, NATO and Russia must agree on the numbers and equipment of Ukraine's armed forces and guarantee that they will not attempt to take control of the buffer zone.
At the same time, the Prime Minister supported the 28-point US peace plan, which, in his opinion, “soberly reflects reality.” “This plan would also allow Russia to return to the international economy, lift sanctions against Moscow and increase business opportunities,” Orban added.
The Hungarian leader emphasized that high-level European-Russian negotiations must start as soon as possible. “Moreover, an arms control agreement must be concluded with Moscow, and in the long term, Europe's military potential must be strengthened so that it can defend itself against any opponent in a conventional war,” the Prime Minister said.
