The meeting precedes a critical European summit scheduled for December 14 and 15.
In a press release, the Élysée Palace stated that the leaders would address issues including "European support for Ukraine" and matters "related to EU enlargement and reform."
Orbán, known for his pro-Russian stance since the war's outset, has also recently opposed the EUR 50 billion aid package proposed by the European Commission for Kyiv.
He further expressed resistance to initiating negotiations on Ukraine's EU accession.
Orbán's stance extends beyond opposition to aid. He has suggested that "Europe's resources should be allocated to peacemaking" rather than financing the war.
These positions pose a significant obstacle as EU decisions in these matters require unanimous approval from all 27 member states.
Efforts to sway Orbán's opinion have been ongoing. European Council President Charles Michel visited Budapest in late November, but his attempts were unsuccessful.
In a recent letter, Orbán requested the removal of budget support for Kyiv and the initiation of EU accession procedures from the next summit's agenda.
Macron's strategy may involve convincing Orbán to alter his stance or finding a compromise.
Orbán has expressed support for a "strategic partnership agreement with Ukraine" instead of full EU membership and favors an aid fund where each member state contributes voluntarily.
Orbán is also awaiting the release of EU funds currently frozen due to concerns over Hungary's corruption and judicial independence issues.
(jh/gs)
Source: EURACTIV, IAR, PAP
