Russia to consider candidacy of former Hungarian premier for UN chief if nominated: Kremlin

By Burc Eruygur

ISTANBUL (AA) - The Kremlin said on Tuesday that it will consider the candidacy of former Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban for the position of UN secretary-general if he is nominated for the post.

“If such a candidate emerges, they will also be considered,” Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters during a news briefing amid media reports about the administration of US President Donald Trump encouraging the former Hungarian prime minister to consider running for the position.

This issue was not raised during the Oct. 9 phone conversation between Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin, Peskov noted.

On Sunday, The Wall Street Journal reported that the Trump administration encouraged Orban to consider running for UN secretary-general, with Russia and China said to be receptive to the idea.

Officials from three countries confirmed that Washington had raised Orban's potential candidacy, which could make him a joint candidate backed by the US, Russia, and China, the report said, adding that the proposal is awaiting a final decision.

A US State Department official acknowledged that the idea might initially sound far-fetched but argued that the three countries could secure sufficient support in the UN Security Council.

Regarding trilateral Ukraine peace talks expected to be held in the Emirati capital Abu Dhabi next month, Peskov said the exact dates for the negotiations have not yet been determined.

The spokesman also commented on a local ceasefire between Moscow and Kyiv in the Russian-controlled city of Oleshky in Ukraine’s southern Kherson region, saying the Russian side has so far reported no violations.

The localized halt, brokered by US first lady Melania Trump last week, took effect at 0100GMT on Tuesday to facilitate humanitarian aid deliveries and civilian evacuations.

Burç Eruygur