At a meeting in Lviv with the All-Ukrainian Congress of Local and Regional Authorities, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky didn’t mince words when responding to Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán’s proposal for a Christmas ceasefire. Orbán, who has promoted peace initiatives since the war began, faced sharp criticism from Zelensky.
“Who else in Europe has such experience? Nobody. Does Orbán have such an army? No. How would he put pressure on Putin? With a joke, a smile? He can keep those for himself,” Zelensky declared, doubling down on his refusal to entertain what he views as ineffective gestures.
The Ukrainian leader emphasized his country’s resilience and victories on the battlefield against Russian aggression. Additionally, he insisted on direct relations with the United States, bypassing intermediaries, to strengthen Ukraine’s position.
Meanwhile, Ukraine’s Foreign Ministry joined the fray, releasing a statement condemning Orbán’s approach. They criticized Hungary for its so-called peacekeeping efforts, labeling them as misleading and harmful.
“Hungarian officials claim they can stop the war, but this is false. Missiles and drones are still targeting Ukrainian cities even after Hungary’s appeals to Moscow,” the statement read. It also accused Hungary of undermining Ukraine’s defense by opposing sanctions on Russia and blocking efforts to bolster Kyiv’s military capabilities.
“We urge Hungary to stop exploiting peace and Christmas for manipulative purposes. Unilateral relations with the aggressor state only harm joint efforts for a just peace,” the ministry added.
Hungary’s call for a holiday ceasefire and prisoner exchange has sparked questions about its motives. Some speculate Orbán may be acting under influence, possibly from U.S. President-elect Donald Trump. While reports suggest Russian President Vladimir Putin expressed interest in the proposal, Zelensky firmly rejected it.
Interestingly, Gallup Research reveals a shift in public sentiment among Ukrainians. For the first time during the war, a majority now supports trading territory for peace, reflecting growing war-weariness.
Still, Zelensky’s stance remains resolute, showing no tolerance for what he perceives as empty gestures that fail to address the realities of Russian aggression.
