Orbán and Zelenskyy to Meet Amidst Tensions; Finland Offers Military Aid to Ukraine

Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán has agreed to a future meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, potentially the first between the two leaders since Russia's invasion of Ukraine. Orbán stated that Zelenskyy requested a discussion on Ukraine's ambitions to join the European Union. Relations between the two leaders have been strained, with Hungary blocking EU financial aid to Ukraine and refusing to provide arms support. Orbán also opposes Ukraine's EU membership path. Last week, Orbán prevented the adoption of a 50-billion euro EU aid package to Kyiv, but allowed accession talks to begin. He continues to oppose the proposed funding for Ukraine and plans to maintain his position when EU leaders meet again in February. Orbán has faced criticism for his stance on the war and allegations of rolling back Hungary's democratic checks and balances.