Brussels:The European Union’s foreign policy chief, Kaja Kallas, has expressed concern over reports that Russian President Vladimir Putin may visit Hungary for talks with former U.S. President Donald Trump. Kallas described such a visit as “not nice” and questioned whether it would produce any meaningful outcome.

The remarks come amid growing tensions over Hungary’s willingness to host the meeting. Hungary’s Prime Minister Viktor Orbán has promoted the country as a neutral location, calling it the only place in Europe where a Trump-Putin meeting could take place.

The planned discussions are expected to focus on the war in Ukraine, a topic that remains a major point of contention for EU and NATO members.

Kallas also highlighted the legal complications surrounding a potential visit, noting that Putin has an active warrant from the International Criminal Court. Hungary is in the process of leaving the ICC, raising questions about the legality of hosting the Russian leader. Lithuania’s Foreign Minister Kestutis Budrys added that Putin should be in The Hague, not in any European capital.

Meanwhile, the EU is preparing to adopt its 19th sanctions package against Russia, expected later this week. The sanctions aim to increase pressure on Moscow amid ongoing conflict in Ukraine.

The proposed Budapest meeting has sparked widespread debate in Europe, highlighting divisions within the EU and raising concerns about the implications for Ukraine. Observers say the outcome of the talks, and Hungary’s role in hosting them, could have significant political and diplomatic consequences across the continent.