Hungary Blocks €6.5 Billion EU Military Aid to Ukraine Amid Criticism

May 27, 2024, 01:32 PM

Hungary is blocking the European Union's agreement to use profits from blocked Russian assets for Ukraine's military needs, according to the Financial Times. This move has caused frustration among EU member states, with Lithuanian Foreign Minister Gabrielius Landsbergis and other EU foreign ministers urging Hungary to cease its obstruction. Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban and Foreign Minister Péter Szijjártó have criticized the EU's involvement in the Ukraine conflict, labeling proposals for mandatory European military conscription as 'insane' and 'unacceptable.' Orban expressed concerns over discussions about tactical nuclear weapons and depleted uranium ammunition, while Szijjártó stated that Ukrainians are fleeing to avoid certain death at the front. The EU's inability to mobilize more than €6.5 billion in military aid for Ukraine due to Hungary's blockade has exacerbated tensions within the bloc.