Ukraine can’t win against Russia – Orban
RTDEC 2022
Hungary's Orbán Defends Putin Meeting
Image credit: Mikhail Svetlov/Getty Images News [via Getty Images]
The Spin
Pro-establishment narrative
Orbán showed his affinity for authoritarianism by shaking hands with Putin, and also undermined European unity and security with his actions. The EU has formed a united front in support of Ukraine against Russia’s brutal invasion, yet Orbán has been a thorn in the side of democracy and the rules-based international order. Orbán must face consequences for his dangerous actions.
Establishment-critical narrative
While other Western countries continue down the path of destruction by aiding and abetting a never-ending war that’s already lasted 20 months, Hungary is seeking a diplomatic solution. This war has been disastrous beyond Russia and Ukraine, and if communication with Putin is needed to end this disaster, leaders have a duty to talk with him.