Portugal considers potential Trump-Putin meeting for ceasefire more significant than location choice.

The Portuguese Minister of Foreign Affairs highlighted the significance of dialogue in achieving a ceasefire in Ukraine, expressing that the planned meeting between Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin in Budapest feels “a bit strange.” Paulo Rangel made these remarks following a ministerial meeting in Luxembourg, acknowledging Hungary’s known stance on the issue.

Rangel remarked, “While it is somewhat unusual for this to occur on EU territory, Hungary’s position is clear, so this is not surprising.” He maintained that any dialogue aimed at peace or ceasefires is always beneficial, even if the meeting takes place in a European Union member state. He acknowledged the implications of such a location but affirmed Hungary’s sovereign right to host negotiations.

The Hungarian government is recognized for its accommodating approach towards Russia and critical views of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, which contrasts with the broader EU perspective. In response to Trump’s suggestion of freezing the conflict, thereby allowing Russia to retain occupied Ukrainian territories, Rangel urged caution against hasty conclusions.

“We must be cautious; commenting on every change and statement will not aid negotiations,” he stated, reiterating Portugal and the EU’s established positions. Rangel emphasized that from Portugal’s viewpoint, achieving a ceasefire swiftly is paramount, even more critical than defining the conflict, as Ukraine and Russia remain far apart on this matter.

Last Thursday, Trump announced his intention to meet with Putin in Budapest after a phone conversation in which he claimed significant progress had been made, without specifying a date for the meeting. This announcement came just before a scheduled meeting with Zelensky at the White House.

It is important to note that there is an arrest warrant against Vladimir Putin issued by the International Criminal Court, and Hungary, as a signatory of the Rome Statute, is obligated to enforce such warrants if the individual enters its territory. In Luxembourg, EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Kaja Kallas, commented that the prospect of the Budapest meeting “is not good.”