Can Putin's 'Flying Kremlin' travel through EU airspace to Budapest?
Published: 10/17/2025

Russian President Vladimir Putin may potentially fly to Budapest to meet US President Trump, using his specially modified Ilyushin Il-96 plane known as the "Flying Kremlin." To reach Hungary, Putin would need special permissions to fly over EU airspace, as Russian aircraft are currently banned from doing so. Despite complications and sanctions against Russia, Hungary is working to facilitate Putin's visit, with assurances of successful talks during the planned summit with Trump. The EU supports efforts towards peace in Ukraine and may grant permissions for Putin's flight, possibly involving a circuitous route through non-EU member states like Serbia.



