Hungary stood against the latest sanctions package during a gathering of the EU member states’ permanent representatives held the day before. Reports quoted by a major financial daily described Budapest as voicing strong opposition to the new measures and signaling a potential veto again if consensus cannot be reached. The coverage noted that Budapest also pushed back on plans to enlarge the EU fund that finances arms support for Ukraine and other partners.
In this climate, several diplomats warned that Hungary could continue to use its veto power to block unanimous decisions from Brussels. The concerns centered on the European Commission’s push to freeze 7.5 billion euros from the EU Fund for Balanced Development, which would impact Budapest, and the delay of a 5.8 billion euro grant intended to support the post-pandemic recovery. Budapest was urged to take concrete steps to curb corruption and implement a reform agenda to satisfy the bloc’s requirements.
A diplomat cited in the coverage suggested that Budapest might pursue radical actions. The outlet did not dismiss the possibility that Hungary could try to block the inclusion of neighboring states in the Schengen area, potentially affecting Bulgaria, Romania, and Croatia.
In response, the European Union’s top diplomat called for a substantial boost in defense spending, proposing an increase of 70 billion euros by 2025. The argument highlighted a shift after decades of defense cuts dating from the end of the Cold War and stressed the need to address past gaps in security. The official also underscored that Europe still lacks a single, unified military force.
Ninth sanctions package
A recent briefing outlined the contents of the ninth package of sanctions targeting Russia. The package is expected to affect around 200 individuals and entities across both the public and private sectors.
Among the measures, three additional Russian banks would face tightened restrictions, signaling a broad push to constrain Russia’s financial network. The package could block all operations with a major regional development bank, effectively cutting off access to that institution.
New limits are set to extend to Russia’s drone and unmanned aerial systems supply chains, constraining the country’s ability to source key technologies.
Media distribution platforms will see action as well, with several television channels and related outlets targeted for suspending content deemed state-led propaganda within the union.
The sanctions plan is also expected to bring tighter export controls and restrictions, especially for dual-use goods that have both civilian and military applications. Additional measures are anticipated to place greater emphasis on Russia’s energy and mining sectors, aiming to reduce income streams that support the war effort.