Ukraine can’t win against Russia – Orban
RTNov 25, 2022
Hungary's Orbán Defends Putin Meeting
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Image copyright: Mikhail Svetlov/Getty Images News [via Getty Images]
The Facts
At an EU summit on Thursday, Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán defended his decision to meet with Russian Pres. Vladimir Putin during China's Belt and Road Forum last week after drawing criticism from fellow EU leaders.
This comes as Luxembourg Prime Minister Xavier Bettel said Orbán's meeting was a “middle finger” to Ukraine, while Estonian Prime Minister Kaja Kallas expressed disapproval of him shaking hands with the Russian leader — whom she called a “war criminal.”
The Spin
Pro-establishment narrative
Orbán showed his affinity for authoritarianism by shaking hands with Putin, and also undermined European unity and security with his actions. The EU has formed a united front in support of Ukraine against Russia’s brutal invasion, yet Orbán has been a thorn in the side of democracy and the rules-based international order. Orbán must face consequences for his dangerous actions.
Establishment-critical narrative
While other Western countries continue down the path of destruction by aiding and abetting a never-ending war that’s already lasted 20 months, Hungary is seeking a diplomatic solution. This war has been disastrous beyond Russia and Ukraine, and if communication with Putin is needed to end this disaster, leaders have a duty to talk with him.
