"Race to Stop Orbán as Putin Ally Eyes European Council Leadership"

European Union leaders are racing to prevent Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán from taking over the leadership of the European Council, as his close ties to Russia and persistent opposition to supporting Ukraine have raised concerns. The current European Council President, Charles Michel, has announced his intention to run for election to the European Parliament in June, prompting a scramble to find his replacement. Orbán's control over the Council could hinder efforts to support Ukraine and contain Russia, as he continues to push for peace talks and Ukrainian concessions while blocking EU funding for Ukraine. Regardless of his motives, Orbán's influence over the Council would be detrimental for Kyiv, and his potential presidency could paralyze the EU's agenda for six months.