In an interview with 'Corriere Della Sera', Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky openly discussed his challenging relationship with Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban, suggesting that a change in Hungarian leadership could pave the way for improved diplomatic ties. Zelensky expressed confidence that Orban will lose the elections, which he believes would allow for the resumption of normal relations between Ukraine and Hungary. He emphasized that the Hungarian populace does not support pro-Russian positions, indicating a potential for a shift in foreign policy post-elections.

Zelensky further characterized Orban's political relevance as largely dependent on the backing of significant political forces, implying that without this support, Orban's influence diminishes significantly. He noted that while Hungary is a diplomatically significant country in Central Europe, it does not possess substantial military power. This comment reflects Zelensky's broader strategy of leveraging international political dynamics to Ukraine's advantage amid ongoing tensions with Russia.

Additionally, Zelensky remarked on his lack of direct communication with Orban, attributing it to Orban's apparent unwillingness to engage. In contrast, he highlighted the importance of maintaining dialogues with other regional leaders such as Slovakia's Prime Minister Robert Fico. Zelensky's insistence that Europe must not purchase energy from Russia, asserting that such financial support ultimately funds military aggression against Ukraine, underscores his commitment to a unified European stance against Russian influence, particularly in the energy sector.