Hungary blocks further EU aid for Ukraine
The EU summit met on Thursday morning. Hungary had already opposed the opening of accession negotiations with Ukraine, but ultimately did not veto the decision. According to diplomatic circles, the blockade was resolved "pragmatically": Orban left the room and the opening of accession negotiations was agreed with the required unanimity.
However, the Hungarian remained firm on the subject of financial aid for Ukraine. "We are in agreement with 26 member states," said Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte, "but there has been no agreement from Hungary so far." The talks are therefore not to be continued on the second day of the summit either. "We have come to the conclusion that it is indeed best to let the matter rest for the time being," said the Dutchman.
The EU Commission had proposed an increase in the EU budget to save Ukraine from economic collapse with 50 billion euros over the next four years. There was also haggling over a further increase in the EU budget framework until 2027. 20 billion euros were recently under discussion, including for external border protection and migration agreements with third countries.
According to diplomats, 26 member states were also largely in agreement on this. However, Orban also vetoed this, according to his own statements.
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The EU summit's discussions on increasing the EU budget to aid Ukraine faced a setback due to Hungary's opposition. Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban blocked the EU payout intended for Ukraine, preventing a consensus among the 26 member states. Charles Michel, the President of the European Council, expressed his disappointment over Hungary's decision. Despite the EU Commission's proposal to allocate 50 billion euros to Ukraine over four years, Hungary's veto hindered the agreement.
Source: www.stern.de
