This is not the first time Hungary has slowed down the European Union during a key foreign policy phase. But rarely has a blockade been as symbolic as this time. While Brussels is working on a new sanctions package against Russia and intends sending a multi-billion-euro loan to Ukraine, Budapest has opposed the measures, forcing the Union into another fundamental debate about its own ability to act.
At the EU foreign ministers’ meeting, the 20th sanctions package could not be adopted. At the same time, Hungary is blocking the final formal step for a Eur 90 billion loan to Ukraine, which the heads of state and government had already unanimously approved in December. The European Parliament has also given its consent. Politically everything is decided – legally, however, one final act is missing. And this is exactly where Budapest steps in. EU foreign affairs representative Kaja Kallas called it a setback. António Costa also reminded Hungary’s Prime Minister that joint decisions are politically binding. The tone is becoming sharper.
Hungary’s argument is energy policy. The Hungarian foreign minister claims that Ukraine is blocking the resumption of oil deliveries via the “Druzhba” pipeline. Without Russian crude oil, Hungary sees its own supply security as threatened. As long as the pipeline remains inactive, Budapest will not approve new sanctions against Russia or financial aid for Ukraine.
The Eur 90 billion loan is meant to provide financial stability for Ukraine till the end of 2027.