Zelensky asserts the need for direct US ties as Orban intercedes
The President of Ukraine, Volodymyr Zelensky, responded to Viktor Orban's remarks by emphasizing that his country needs direct relations with the United States without intermediaries.
President Zelensky reiterated that Ukraine requires direct contact with the United States. "We are currently in a transitional period in the United States. I am in touch with President Trump," he stated. "We have had several meetings and discussions, and I don't need intermediaries for this," Zelensky declared during the Congress of Local and Regional Authorities at the President of Ukraine.
Zelensky responds to Orban
He added that "various politicians are using this for publicity" and in this context, referred to Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban. "I will not let him and those like him take the lead. We need direct relations with the United States," he emphasized.
He stressed that Ukraine is a strong country, as demonstrated during the defensive war with Russia. "Does Orban have such an army? What leverage does he have over Putin? A joke? A smile?" he queried.
Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban announced on December 11 that his country has undertaken new peace efforts, and he spoke by phone with Vladimir Putin about Ukraine. "We will use all diplomatic means at our disposal to achieve a ceasefire and move closer to peace," declared Orban.
Zelensky added that until President Trump takes office, Ukraine is cooperating with President Joe Biden, who has increased the number of decisions and aid packages for Ukraine. "It's unfortunate they are intensifying this now, at the end of the term," he remarked. Zelensky expressed hope that the Trump administration will support Ukraine and not halt this assistance.
