Russian President Vladimir Putin announced plans to release two Ukrainian-Hungarian nationals who were captured while participating in the conflict for Ukraine. This decision follows an appeal made by Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán in a phone call to Putin. During a meeting in the Kremlin with Hungarian Foreign Minister Péter Szijjártó, Putin clarified that the two soldiers were 'forcibly conscripted' by Ukraine, and he personally took the initiative to facilitate their release.

Hungary's relationship with Russia has been noted as one of the key factors influencing this decision, with Hungary historically maintaining closer ties to Moscow compared to many other European nations, especially in light of the ongoing war in Ukraine. Budapest has consistently opposed providing military assistance to Ukraine and has been seeking a pathway to ensure the safety and return of its nationals. This move may be seen as an effort to strengthen diplomatic relations between Hungary and Russia further.

The release of these POWs comes against the backdrop of Hungary's large Hungarian minority residing in Ukraine, primarily in the western region of Zakarpattia, where many hold dual citizenship. This situation has led to Hungary's unique diplomatic stance toward Russia amidst the broader European response to the conflict, illustrating the complexities of international relations in the region, particularly as Hungary's government navigates its national interests in the context of the ongoing war.