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Defense OneJUL 2024
Hungary's Orbán Makes Surprise Visit to China
Image copyright: Andrea Verdelli/Pool/Getty Images News via Getty Images
The Spin
Establishment-critical narrative
Orbán's outreach to China and Russia over Ukraine is a smart move. This "shuttle diplomacy" reflects a pragmatic approach in contrast with the West's confrontational stance. Orban's efforts align with Xi's call for a political settlement that may foster a less antagonistic approach to world conflicts within the context of Xi and Putin's efforts to forge a more harmonious multipolar world order.
Pro-establishment narrative
Orbán has no role or right in mediating over the Ukraine war. This so-called "shuttle diplomacy" is undermined by Hungary's policy towards Ukraine, which includes making unreasonable demands regarding Hungarian minorities. His actions serve as a "Trojan horse" for Russia within the EU and NATO. This is a cynical undermining of a rules-based order that seeks to end Russian aggression against Ukraine.