EU officials called the meeting between Putin and Trump in Hungary a “political nightmare.”

European officials call the upcoming meeting between Donald Trump and Putin in Budapest a “political nightmare.” This is reported by El Pais, citing sources in the European Union.

Negotiations in Budapest

The planned negotiations are causing concern in Brussels, as they are perceived as an insult to Europe. This particularly highlights the uncomfortable position of the top leadership of the EU and NATO, as Putin and Trump intend to discuss the Russian-Ukrainian war on the territory of an EU member state, but without the participation of the bloc itself.

As an unnamed diplomat stated, the choice of meeting place is not accidental. Budapest may deepen divisions within the EU regarding the Kremlin, as well as provide support to Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban, who will be holding elections next year.

Attitude towards the meeting

Alberto Alemanno, a democracy researcher from Harvard University, believes that the meeting may allow Orban to speak on behalf of the entire European Union. Hungary’s position on the Russian-Ukrainian conflict significantly differs from the EU’s general line.

Nevertheless, the European Commission has placed the main emphasis on pragmatism. A representative commented that, despite the format of the meeting, if it contributes to a peaceful resolution of the issue in Ukraine, it should be welcomed.

Conversation between Trump and Putin

On October 16, Donald Trump had a phone conversation with Vladimir Putin, after which a meeting of the leaders in Hungary was announced. The exact date of the negotiations has not yet been announced.

In addition, Hungary confirmed that Vladimir Putin will not be threatened with arrest under the International Criminal Court’s warrant during his subsequent visit. This statement once again underscores support for Orban’s regime, despite international consequences.

International law and politics

Hungary, as before, is ready to cross the boundaries of international law, as seen in the example of Sabina Netanyahu and other incidents. Nevertheless, in the current situation, the question arises about the prospect of resolving conflicts with Russia and the role of Europe in these negotiations.

Thus, Hungary finds itself at the center of international politics, facing challenges and consequences both for itself and for the entire European Union.