After the United States suspended its aid to Ukraine, Europe stepped in to support the war-torn nation. The European Union (EU) had initiated a process to provide €30 billion ($32 billion) in military assistance to Ukraine.
However, the aid package has been blocked due to objections from Hungary, a key member of the EU. According to a report by Russian media outlet RT, the proposal to provide aid to Ukraine was presented at a European Council meeting in Brussels on Tuesday. Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban vetoed the proposal, citing his country’s stance against war and conflict.
Orban argued, “It is said that this assistance is being provided so Ukraine can continue the war. This is where our objection lies, as Hungary never supports or endorses war. Hungary’s core policy is peace, dialogue, and diplomatic initiatives.”
The EU, which comprises 28 countries, operates under a constitution established in 1949. According to EU rules, if a member state opposes a decision, it cannot be implemented.
Orban, known for his pro-Russian stance, has previously blocked military aid to Ukraine and has consistently called for Ukraine to cease fighting and start peace talks with Russia.
However, this time his efforts might not succeed. European Council President António Costa told reporters, “Hungary’s stance on Ukraine is causing its isolation. Currently, 27 EU nations are on one side, with Hungary on the other.”
The EU is set to reconvene on March 20 in Brussels to seek a consensus on the aid package for Ukraine.