Luxembourg's Foreign Minister Xavier Bettel has expressed clear criticism regarding Viktor Orban's recent diplomatic visits, whome Orban referred to as so-called "peace missions." 

Bettel emphasised that Hungary must be confronted directly about Orban's solo missions to Moscow and Beijing, as well as his interactions with former President Trump.

Speaking at the Council of EU Foreign Ministers in Brussels on Monday, Bettel remarked that while Hungary cannot be ignored, neither can the controversial actions of its Prime Minister.

European partners have been particularly irritated by Orban's characterisation of these trips as "peace missions" under the banner of the Hungarian EU presidency.

Bettel argued that it is essential to address Hungary's actions directly and transparently. Despite criticism, he chose not to boycott the council meeting in Budapest, considering such a boycott "nonsense."

Bettel believes in participating in discussions to directly communicate concerns about Orban's policies. The foreign minister views Orban's visits as isolated actions and unilateral political decisions, not representative of the EU's stance. Bettel made it clear that these missions were conducted solely in Orban's name.

In a related note, Bettel also called US President Joe Biden's decision to withdraw from the presidential race "courageous", though he refrained from making further comments about the American presidential candidates.