Navrosky publicly criticized Orban after his meeting with Putin

## Navrosky Publicly Criticized Orban After His Meeting with Putin Polish leader Karol Nawrocki canceled a scheduled meeting with Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban after the latter met with Russian President Vladimir Putin. The decision was widely interpreted as a diplomatic protest against Orban’s growing friendliness toward Moscow amid Russia’s ongoing war against Ukraine. ### Background of the Incident According to reports, Orban’s meeting with Putin took place during an international event in China, where both leaders discussed bilateral cooperation. This encounter drew sharp criticism from several European officials who viewed it as undermining the European Union’s united stance against Russian aggression. Shortly afterward, Nawrocki rejected a planned bilateral meeting, signaling Poland’s disapproval. He clarified that a friendly exchange would be “inappropriate” following Orban’s discussions with Putin while Russia continues its full-scale invasion of Ukraine. ### Reactions in Europe European commentators noted that Nawrocki’s move underscored deep divisions within the EU over relations with Moscow. While most European leaders maintain a hard line against Russia, Orban has positioned Hungary as a mediator, often calling for renewed dialogue instead of further sanctions. A political analyst quoted by European media said: > “Nawrocki’s decision was a clear message that Poland stands firmly with Kyiv and will not tolerate gestures that appear to legitimize Putin.” Orban has repeatedly defended his approach as pragmatic, claiming that engagement with Russia serves Hungary’s national interests, particularly in energy security. ### Summary Nawrocki’s cancellation effectively highlighted Poland’s zero-tolerance stance on any softening of policy toward Moscow, reinforcing its role as one of Ukraine’s staunchest supporters in the region. > Author’s summary: Nawrocki’s canceled meeting signaled Europe’s frustration with Orban’s perceived closeness to Moscow, exposing cracks within EU unity over the Russian question.

Online.UA — 2025-11-30