Prime Minister Viktor Orban, below, who maintains close ties with Russian tyrant Vladimir Putin and has always opposed Ukraine joining, said of the meeting: “Summary of the night shift – veto for the extra money to Ukraine.”
But Dutch Premier Mark Rutte said: “We still have some time, Ukraine is not out of money in the next few weeks. I am fairly confident we can get a deal early next year.”
European Council president Charles Michel added: “We will revert to this matter early next year and we’ll try to get unanimity.” The EU earlier agreed to open membership talks with Ukraine and Moldova while granting candidate status to Georgia. Hungary left the room while the vote went ahead.
President Volodymr Zelensky said: “This is a victory for Ukraine. A victory for all of Europe. A victory that motivates, inspires and strengthens.”
Moldova’s path has been eased by the war. President Maia Sandu said: “We wouldn’t be here today without Ukraine’s brave resistance.”
The White House hailed the “historic” move on accession talks with the two ex-Soviet countries. But a £48billion US defence aid package for Kyiv isl held up by rows between the Democrats and Republicans.
