Putin and Trump Meeting in Hungary: As a significant step toward ending the Ukraine conflict, the upcoming meeting between Russian President Vladimir Putin and US President Donald Trump in Hungary has become a topic of discussion in global politics. Serious questions are being raised about this meeting, both at the legal and political levels.
The ICC Warrant and the Possibility of Putin’s Arrest
It should be noted that the International Criminal Court (ICC) has issued an arrest warrant against Putin on charges of war crimes. Consequently, Putin remains at risk of arrest in Hungary, as Hungary is an ICC member state. However, Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban recently initiated the process of withdrawing from the ICC, which appears to diminish Putin’s chances of arrest. Furthermore, Hungary wants to ensure Putin’s safety due to its close political ties with Russia.
Traveling via the Mediterranean Sea is more appropriate
Putin’s travel route is also a significant challenge due to EU sanctions imposed against Russia. Putin will face numerous complications traveling from Moscow to Hungary, as the airspace of several European countries is closed to Russian aircraft. Traveling via Turkey and the Mediterranean is considered a more practical option for Putin, allowing him to avoid the territory of NATO-backed countries.
Hosting the meeting is a major opportunity for Prime Minister Viktor Orban
Hosting this meeting also represents a political opportunity for Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban, allowing him to deflect attention from domestic economic pressures and rising food prices. Furthermore, the meeting could be a potential turning point in resolving the Ukraine crisis, although its success remains highly uncertain.
The proposed meeting between Putin and Trump in Hungary is not only a diplomatic event, but also reflects a complex balance between international law, security, and political alliances. Its fate and impact could have profound implications for global peace efforts.