Orbán traveled to Kyiv, the Ukrainian capital, on Tuesday for his first visit in 12 years, and his first since the start of the full-scale Russian invasion in 2022.

His trip raised eyebrows owing to Hungary’s stance on the war.

Orban and his government have triggered considerable ire and frustration in much of Europe owing to what many consider as a pro-Putin stance, which has resulted in Hungary blocking or delaying EU aid for Ukraine.

Budapest argues that it is pro-peace while Western leaders are pro-war, and has made repeated calls for a ceasefire.

During a joint press conference with President Zelenskyy, Orbán said while he appreciated Ukraine’s efforts to achieve peace, it could be a long time before they achieve results.

“So I asked [the] President whether we can think about taking a slightly different approach,” said Orbán. “To take a break. To get a ceasefire and then proceed with negotiations.

“A ceasefire should speed up the pace of these negotiations.”

In response, Zelenskyy said that he appreciated the visit by Orbán just a day after Hungary assumed the rotating presidency of the European Union Council, but added that his country wanted a “just peace”.

Kyiv has rejected calls for a ceasefire in the past, saying that only the withdrawal of Russian forces from Ukrainian territory can form the foundations for peace talks.