EU Expansion Chief Sees Hungary Election as Catalyst for Ukraine Aid
The European Union's commissioner for enlargement, Marta Kos, declared on Tuesday that the recent election result in Hungary, which ousted long-serving nationalist prime minister Viktor Orbán, could be pivotal in unlocking a €90 billion loan for Ukraine. Speaking at the sidelines of the IMF and World Bank spring meetings, Kos hailed the outcome as a "big win for Europe," suggesting it might remove a major obstacle to financial support for Kyiv.
Orbán's Veto and Pipeline Dispute
Viktor Orbán had effectively blocked the release of these funds, leveraging a veto tied to a dispute with Ukraine over a damaged pipeline that carries Russian oil. This move had frustrated other EU leaders, stalling critical aid intended to prop up Ukraine's budget amid its ongoing conflict with Russia. Kos expressed optimism that the change in government would not only facilitate the loan but also inject new momentum into Ukraine's accession process to join the European Union.
International Support and Diplomatic Challenges
In parallel developments, Britain is set to announce additional support for Ukraine worth millions of pounds on Wednesday. Chancellor Rachel Reeves is expected to confirm a £752 million payment to Kyiv as part of a larger £3.36 billion loan, aimed at funding weaponry such as long-range missiles, air defense systems, and drones. This comes as Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy voiced concerns about US attention, telling German broadcaster ZDF that American peace negotiators, including Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, are preoccupied with the war in Iran, potentially slowing arms deliveries and diplomatic efforts.
Enhanced Defense Cooperation and Sanctions Relief
Norway and Ukraine have agreed to strengthen their bilateral defense cooperation, with plans to produce Ukrainian drones in Norway. Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Stoere emphasized the importance of learning from Ukraine's experiences in the conflict. Meanwhile, the US extended sanctions relief on Russian oil company Lukoil, allowing its fuel stations outside Russia to operate until October 29, a move aimed at mitigating crude price spikes under the current administration.
