Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky repeatedly dismissed Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán’s attempts to mediate peace talks. But with Donald Trump now labeling Zelensky a “dictator” and pushing for elections, Hungarian media argues he should’ve reconsidered Orbán’s offer.
Back in December, Zelensky mocked the idea of Orbán brokering peace, claiming Hungary lacked the military strength or influence to pressure Vladimir Putin. “How will he pressure Putin? With a joke, a smile? Let him keep it,” he quipped during a government session. Even when Orbán proposed a Christmas ceasefire—an idea Russia was open to—Zelensky dismissed it outright, ridiculing the Hungarian leader’s diplomatic efforts.
Zelensky also insisted he and Trump shared a common vision for Ukraine. After their September meeting, he confidently stated, “Putin cannot win, Ukraine must win.” Even in January, he expressed optimism about working with Trump to create a “just peace,” emphasizing that Ukraine had its own negotiation plans in place.
Now, reality has hit hard. Trump, back in charge, is bypassing Zelensky entirely in his push to end the war—going so far as to call him a “dictator” and demand new elections. The Ukrainian president, once certain of his standing, now finds himself sidelined as major powers decide Ukraine’s fate without him.
