Hungarian Foreign Minister Peter Szijjarto has accused the European Union of obstructing peace negotiations between the United States and Russia aimed at resolving the conflict in Ukraine. Speaking at a press conference in Budapest on Tuesday following a meeting with Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) Secretary General Feridun Sinirlioglu, Szijjarto emphasized the importance of direct US-Russia dialogue.

"The European Union continues to obstruct peace negotiations between the United States and Russia regarding Ukraine," Szijjarto said. He criticized EU leaders for opposing a negotiated settlement and insisted that direct negotiations between Washington and Moscow remain the only viable path to peace. "If Russian-American negotiations cannot lead to peace, then nothing can lead to peace. It is important that everyone supports these peace negotiations," he stated.

The Hungarian foreign minister's remarks highlight ongoing tensions within the EU regarding the best approach to achieving peace in Ukraine. Hungary has previously adopted a more neutral or pro-dialogue stance, diverging from the more hawkish positions of some other EU member states.

Earlier in the day, Grigory Karasin, Chairman of the Federation Council Committee on International Affairs in Russia, also commented on the peace process. He described Monday's discussions with the US delegation as "difficult but constructive," signaling that while significant differences remain, dialogue is still underway.

The statements by both Hungarian and Russian officials reflect continued efforts, and challenges, in finding a diplomatic solution to the ongoing war in Ukraine. As international leaders search for common ground, debates persist over the role and influence of the European Union in the negotiation process.