EU accuses Hungary of disloyalty for vetoing €90 billion loan to Ukraine
1951 Min Read
Hungary’s decision to veto a €90 billion EU loan for Ukraine has drawn sharp criticism from Brussels and several member states, who argue the move breaches the bloc’s principle of sincere cooperation.
The loan package, agreed by EU leaders in December after lengthy negotiations, was in the final stage of the legislative process, with the first disbursement expected in early April. Although Hungary, Slovakia and the Czech Republic had secured an opt-out, Budapest unexpectedly blocked the measure over a separate dispute concerning energy supplies.
EU High Representative Kaja Kallas described the move as “regrettable”, saying it was not in line with the EU treaties’ requirement for sincere cooperation.
European Council President António Costa warned that decisions endorsed by all 27 leaders “must be respected”, stating that undermining collective agreements damages the EU’s credibility. French President Emmanuel Macron echoed the criticism, insisting that commitments made at the European Council would be honoured.
The dispute centres on the Soviet-era Druzhba pipeline, which transports Russian crude oil to Hungary and Slovakia under a sanctions exemption. Following damage to the pipeline in January, Hungary has accused Ukraine of failing to restore deliveries, a claim Kyiv disputes, saying repair works are ongoing.
