“Hungary blocks €50bn EU aid for Ukraine after membership talks.”
Hungary has vetoed €50 billion in EU aid for Ukraine shortly after an agreement was made on initiating membership talks. Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban expressed his opposition to the extra funding for Ukraine, despite EU leaders indicating that negotiations would resume in the early months of the following year.
Ukraine heavily relies on financial aid from the EU and the US to combat the presence of Russian forces in its territory. Orban’s decision to block the aid came after the EU leaders’ decision to open talks on membership for Ukraine, Moldova, and grant candidate status to Georgia. Despite Hungary’s ties with Russia, Orban did not veto the move for Ukraine’s membership.
Orban, during the discussions, left the negotiating room briefly, expressing his disagreement with the majority decision. He mentioned his eight-hour-long efforts to persuade EU partners to no avail. Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte remained optimistic about reaching a deal early next year despite Orban’s opposition.
The aid package aimed to sustain Ukraine’s functioning by supporting public services, salaries, and pensions. However, the delay in financial assistance adds pressure as Ukraine fights against Russian occupation, and concerns rise about a possible halt in its counter-offensive due to lack of resources.
Ukrainian President Zelensky celebrated the EU’s decision on membership talks, considering it a victory. However, Ukrainian politician Kira Rudik expressed disappointment over the aid blockade, emphasizing the necessity of financial support in their war against Russia.
Despite the setback, there’s hope that Brussels will find alternative ways to provide economic support. Ukraine, Moldova, and Georgia pursued EU membership following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022. The EU’s decision to initiate talks does not guarantee immediate membership, as the process involves meeting various standards and reforms. However, it is considered a morale boost for Ukraine amid its ongoing conflict and a moment when global attention is diverted elsewhere, especially towards conflicts in the Middle East.
