Ukrainian Foreign Ministry tells Orban how Hungary could help end war in Ukraine

Hungary will be able to help to end the war in Ukraine if it stops destroying unity in the EU, supports new anti-Russian sanctions, provides military assistance to Ukraine, and not pay for Russian gas in roubles.

This was stated in a comment provided to Ukrinform by Foreign Ministry official Oleg Nikolenko.

The spokesperson noted that Russia is trying to convert payments for gas supplies to Europe into the national currency to save the Russian economy amid mounting international sanctions.

"Russia's military machine needs sources to continue the war against Ukraine. In this context, we consider the statement of readiness to pay for Russian gas in roubles as an unfriendly position toward our country. Such statements also contradict the consolidated position of the European Union, which has refused to satisfy Russia's whim on principle," Nikolenko said.

He also stressed that the reluctance of the Hungarian leadership to recognize Russia's undeniable responsibility for the atrocities of the Russian army in Bucha, Irpin, Hostomel, and other settlements means to consciously strengthen Russia's sense of impunity and encourage the aggressor to commit new atrocities against Ukrainians.

According to the Foreign Ministry representative, against this background, proposals to hold peace talks between Ukraine and Russia in Budapest look cynical.

"If Hungary really wants to help end the war, here's how this could be done: stop destroying unity in the EU, support new anti-Russian sanctions, provide military assistance to Ukraine, and don’t create additional sources to finance the Russian military machine. It is never too late to get on the right side of history," Nikolenko summed up.

As reported, Prime Minister of Hungary Viktor Orbán stated, that on April 6, during a phone call with Russian President Vladimir Putin, he invited the latter to Budapest for peace talks on Ukraine.

Mykhailo Podoliak, an adviser to the head of the Office of the President of Ukraine, called Orban's idea a source of "media hype." According to him, the Russian-Ukrainian talks are underway online, but a possible meeting of the leaders in Budapest is not being discussed.

Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban also said the country was ready to pay for Russian gas in roubles "if Russia asks."