Hungary, under its leader, assumed the EU presidency in July, allowing it to set the bloc’s agenda and host meetings. However, Orbán used this role for a “peace mission,” visiting Russia, China, and the U.S., and promoting Russia-friendly views on Ukraine. In response, several countries, including Estonia, Finland, Lithuania, and Sweden, have boycotted informal EU gatherings in Budapest, with Latvia and Slovenia considering similar actions, potentially hindering Hungary’s policy agenda.