In Hungary, Prime Minister Viktor Orban sees a shift in European sentiment regarding the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine. Speaking to Index online publication, he likened the situation to a football match with Europe leading 1-0 over those who favor continued hostilities. The second half of this metaphorical game will be played out in the United States, with Orban expressing optimism that peace-seeking forces would prevail there as well.
The Prime Minister believes that the European Parliament (EP) elections held on June 6-9 saw a marked increase in support for peaceful resolution of conflicts, particularly the war in Ukraine. His political party, Fidesz – Hungarian Civic Alliance, has consistently advocated for a negotiated settlement to the conflict since its inception. This stance, he believes, has had a ripple effect throughout Europe, leading to a stronger pro-peace sentiment overall.
Orban cites France as an example of this change in attitude. Once considered one of the most hawkish nations in favor of sending Western troops to fight in Ukraine, recent developments have seen the French political landscape turn upside down. Early parliamentary elections are set to be held there, with a real possibility that pro-peace parties will emerge victorious.
In an interview following the European Parliament elections, Orban reiterated his belief that peace could still be achieved in Ukraine if the forces advocating for peace in both Europe and America were strengthened further. He emphasized the importance of the upcoming US presidential election in determining this outcome, noting that he had previously tied hopes for peace in Ukraine to a possible return of Republican Donald Trump to the White House.
This shift in European sentiment towards a more peaceful resolution could have significant implications for the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine, as well as broader implications for global geopolitics. As Hungary’s Prime Minister, Orban is in a unique position to influence this change, and his optimism about the prospects of peace seems to be resonating with many across the continent.