Hungary permanently loses access to significant EU funding while experiencing an economic recession, prompting the government to seek Asian investments.
While Hungary's Prime Minister claims to have proposed a Christmas ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine, Kyiv's presidential adviser Dmytro Lytvyn strongly rebukes the unauthorized initiative, emphasizing Ukraine's need for "real peace, not PR stunts."
Earlier, Orbán urged a review of a $50 billion aid package to Ukraine and warned that Europe cannot sustain Ukraine’s defense alone if US support wanes.
In his first visit to Hungary since Russia's invasion, President Zelenskyy rejected Prime Minister Viktor Orbán's push for an immediate ceasefire, while warning of North Korea's direct involvement in the war.
Ukraine is negotiating a comprehensive document with Hungary to address challenges, seek backing for NATO membership, and prevent potential blockades to Zelenskyy's victory strategy.
Hungary began allowing Russian and Belarusian citizens to enter as guest workers without security checks, with the option to bring their families and apply for permanent residency after three years.