Will Hungary lift its veto? Pressure mounts over Ukraine aid
The European Union and Hungary are locked in a standoff over a new aid package for Ukraine, with Brussels threatening to take punitive measures if Budapest maintains its veto.
EU's Alleged Plan
According to a confidential document obtained by the Financial Times, the EU has prepared a strategy to target Hungary's economic vulnerabilities, including destabilising its currency and deterring investor confidence, if the country continues to block the €50 billion aid package for Ukraine. The document reportedly states that such actions would aim to hit "jobs and growth" in Hungary.
The EU claims that Hungary's veto, stemming from tensions with Ukraine over minority rights and the bloc's concerns about Hungary's adherence to the rule of law, is hindering critical support for Ukraine during the ongoing war.
Hungary's Response
Hungarian officials have denied any knowledge of such a plan and maintain their stance against the veto. "Hungary will not yield to pressure," declared Hungarian Minister for European Affairs, Janos Boka.
Background
In December 2023, Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban lifted his veto on launching EU accession talks with Ukraine. However, he subsequently blocked the €50 billion aid package, citing the aforementioned disputes with Ukraine and the EU.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
