EU approves allocation of €900 million to Hungary if it unblocks Ukraine aid

Reuters reported this on November 23.

This move by the EU aims to persuade Hungary's Prime Minister, Viktor Orbán, to unfreeze the aid package earmarked for Ukraine. 

Earlier, Hungary was excluded from the COVID-19 economic stimulus program due to concerns about corruption and the Orbán government's departure from rule-of-law principles, particularly regarding the treatment of the LGBT community.

In response, Hungary imposed a de facto veto on the EU's decision to provide Ukraine with 50 billion euros in economic aid until 2027. Orbán also threatens to impede negotiations on Ukraine's accession to the EU.

Notably, the European Commission had recommended initiating the negotiation process for Ukraine's EU accession.

Orbán's government has also hindered the EU's 20-billion-euro military aid plan for Ukraine and opposed tougher sanctions against Russia.

It remains uncertain whether Hungary has committed to lifting the veto following the release of EU funds.

• On November 9, media reports surfaced, suggesting that EU nations are exploring alternative financing options for Ukraine in case Hungary opposes the current proposal of 50 billion euros.