I go where I am valued: Putin visits Orban

(Patria) – Russian President Vladimir Putin will travel to Budapest on Wednesday to meet with Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban.

It is known that the two leaders maintain a close relationship and common views, and Putin has been a frequent guest in Budapest in recent years.

Hungarian media reported that the main topic of discussion will be the gas supply contract between the two countries, which expires in 2021. Namely, Hungary depends on Russia for most of its gas needs, and after Russia realizes the gas supply under the Black Sea to Turkey with one line directly to Hungary, this dependence will likely increase.

It is assumed that the two leaders will also discuss the contract for the upgrade of Hungary's only nuclear power plant, which is financed by a Russian loan.

Unlike the Hungarian government, which always strives to show a special welcome to the Russian leader, Putin's relationship with other EU leaders has been significantly disrupted after Russia's annexation of Crimea in 2014.

Political analysts believe that Orban himself benefits from the meeting, as he seeks to present Hungary as a bridge between the EU and Russia, or the East.