European Union leaders are gathering today to address the pressing need for financial support for Ukraine, with 26 out of 27 member countries in agreement that Europe’s security is on the line. However, the unity faces a formidable obstacle in the form of Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban, who remains steadfast in his resistance.
The war in Ukraine, now at a standstill two years since Russia’s invasion, has left the nation’s economy in dire need of support. Political discord within the EU and the United States, however, is hindering the long-term financial aid Ukraine requires, with more than $100 billion hanging in the balance.
In December, the 26 leaders reached an agreement on a substantial package amounting to €50billion ($54 billion) from 2022 to 2027. Additionally, Ukraine was designated as a candidate for EU membership, a decision Orban reluctantly endorsed.
European Council President Charles Michel stressed the importance of securing this agreement for credibility and steadfast support to Ukraine. However, the financial package is part of a review of the EU’s seven-year budget, requiring unanimous approval.
Markus Korhonen, Senior Associate, Strategic Intelligence, at geopolitical risk consultancy S-RM, expressed reservations about alienating Hungary.
In a note sent to Express.co.uk, he warned: “Sacrificing Hungary may well trigger wider fractures and risk disintegrating the EU.”
Korhonen highlighted the challenges of getting all 26 member states to agree on such a drastic measure, citing Hungary’s increasing isolation within the EU.
He added: “Employing such a drastic measure will not sit easy with EU members concerned that if this tool is employed against Hungary, it would set precedent for future use against them over rule of law or minority rights issues at home.”
Orban, known for his close ties to Russia, is angered by the European Commission’s decision to freeze Hungary’s access to certain bloc funds due to concerns about democratic backsliding. In response, Hungary has wielded its veto power on various issues within the EU and NATO.
Orban’s isolation in the EU intensified after Poland voted out the eurosceptic Law and Justice party in 2023, losing a key ally. Italy, under Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, has also shifted towards a more centrist approach to Russia and Ukrainian aid.
Slovakia’s Prime Minister Robert Fico, once seen as a potential ally for Hungary, has indicated support for Ukraine’s EU accession and the aid package, further complicating Hungary’s position.
Orban, who did not speak to reporters upon entering the meeting in Brussels, remains defiant despite mounting pressure.
