The European Union is working around Hungary’s potential veto to provide Ukraine with 50 billion euros in aid as it continues to fight against Russia’s invasion. The EU is set to vote on the aid package at a summit in December, and the Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban’s ties with Moscow have raised concerns about a potential veto.
Last year, Hungary vetoed a similar proposal to provide 18 billion euros in financial assistance to Ukraine. Eventually, the aid was approved after the EU used a workaround to push it through, and officials are prepared to use similar tactics if needed this year.
Hungary’s stance on the war with Russia has also complicated the EU’s decision on whether to start EU accession negotiations with Kyiv. This matters because it requires unanimity among the 27 EU members, a decision that is uncertain given Orban’s opposition to the move.
As the EU seeks Hungary’s support for Ukraine, it is also looking at unlocking suspended EU funds for Hungary, but officials are emphasizing that Budapest would still need to meet necessary conditions to access the funds.