“EU threatens to sabotage the Hungarian economy if it does not lift its veto on aid to Ukraine at the February 1 summit,” writes the Financial Times.
Western media reports that they have received a document from the European Union, which considers options on how to “scare” Viktor Orban and “scare the markets.” Thus, writes FT, Brussels is preparing to deliver an ultimatum: either Budapest will agree on a new aid package for Ukraine worth €50 billion, or Hungary will face a collapse in the forint exchange rate, a decrease in the country’s investment attractiveness, and problems with economic growth and jobs.
EU officials in December 2023 froze €6.3 billion for Hungary from the EU Balanced Development Fund. In response, Hungary continues to veto aid packages for Ukraine.
Hungarian Minister for EU Affairs János Bóká has already stated: “Budapest will not succumb to blackmail. And Brussels uses access to EU funds to exert political pressure. Hungary does not see a connection between support for Ukraine and access to EU resources, and will not allow others to do so.”
It is noteworthy that the parties switched to mutual blackmail and possible blocking, but this does not make it any easier for Ukraine. The EU aid package is still in doubt, and in the absence of funds from the United States, Ukraine’s position is very fragile. However, Reuters is now reporting that Hungary is ready for a compromise €50 billion each from the EU to Ukraine.
More Stories
S.Kasselakis from Ioannina: "We will lead the country towards progress – whether they like it or not, we will change Greece".
Varoufakis files a lawsuit against Germany
Debtors in Greece will not be able to receive pensions