EU's 20th Sanctions Package Against Russia Delayed by Hungarian Blockade
The European Union is facing significant hurdles in reaching a consensus on its latest, 20th package of sanctions targeting Russia, with Hungary's persistent opposition threatening to derail the agreement. This impasse emerges just ahead of the fourth anniversary of Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine, casting a shadow over the bloc's unified stance.
Hungary's Firm Stance and Oil Transit Dispute
Hungary has explicitly blocked the adoption of the sanctions package, linking its approval to the resolution of a bilateral dispute with Ukraine over oil transit. Hungarian Foreign Minister Péter Szijjártó stated unequivocally that until Ukraine resumes oil shipments to Hungary and Slovakia via the Druzhba pipeline, Budapest will not permit any decisions favorable to Kyiv to advance. This stance extends beyond sanctions to include a proposed €90 billion loan for Ukraine, further complicating EU efforts.
EU Foreign Policy Chief Kaja Kallas acknowledged the deadlock, expressing pessimism about immediate progress. She noted that despite ongoing efforts to secure the sanctions package, Hungary's strong statements indicate little likelihood of a change in position today. This admission underscores the deepening rift within the EU as it navigates geopolitical tensions.
Political Context and Upcoming Elections
The timing is particularly sensitive, occurring just six weeks before a pivotal parliamentary election in Hungary. Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, who has held power for 16 years, trails the opposition leader Péter Magyar by 10 points in polls. In response, Orbán has increasingly employed anti-Ukrainian rhetoric, alleging a conspiracy between Kyiv and Brussels to oust him and warning of potential war expansion into Hungary. This political maneuvering adds layers of complexity to the sanctions debate.
Broader Implications for the EU
Failure to agree on the new sanctions package would be a significant embarrassment for the European Union. It coincides with plans by EU leaders, including Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, to travel to Kyiv on Tuesday to mark the invasion anniversary. This setback highlights the challenges of maintaining cohesion among member states amid divergent national interests and political pressures.
As the situation unfolds, other European developments are also in focus, including the swearing-in of Rob Jetten as the new Dutch prime minister, a meeting between Finland's Alexander Stubb and France's Emmanuel Macron in Paris, and discussions in the European Parliament on the future of the EU-US trade deal. The broader European landscape remains dynamic, with the sanctions issue serving as a critical test of the bloc's resolve and unity in the face of ongoing conflict.
