Outrage in Europe: Trump and Putin will talk about war without the European Union

The planned meeting between Trump and Putin in Budapest is causing serious concern among European countries.

The clash between US President Donald Trump and Russian leader Vladimir Putin, which is to take place in Budapest, is causing great concern in European political circles. According to “European Pravda”, referring to El País, Brussels considers this a political blow – because the two leaders will discuss the war in Ukraine within the framework of the European Union, without involving the EU itself in the conversation.

This meeting was initiated by Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban, whose elections will be held next year. Diplomats believe that such a format is beneficial for both Russia and Orban, as it can exacerbate internal divisions within the EU over the Kremlin.

In addition to the political situation, the planned meeting also poses logistical problems – Putin’s plane needs special permits to cross EU airspace. Otherwise, the Russian leader will have to choose a much longer route.

“The location of the meeting was chosen for its potential benefits to Russia and the possibility of escalating internal EU tensions. It could also be useful for Orban, given his upcoming elections,” said one European diplomat.

EU officials say they support initiatives that could help end the conflict in Ukraine. But behind the scenes, the meeting is being seen as a “political nightmare.”

European sanctions have forced Putin to take a detour to Budapest, as he must fly more than 5,000 km to avoid EU airspace.