Viktor Orban’s Veto Sparks Tensions as EU Leaders Scramble for Alternative Solutions
In a move that has deepened divisions within the European Union, Hungary has vetoed a proposed €30 billion ($32 billion) military aid package for Ukraine, stalling critical support for Kiev as it continues to defend itself against Russian aggression. The decision came during an emergency European Council meeting in Brussels on Thursday, where Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban stood alone in opposition to the measure, despite broad support from the other 26 member states.
The aid package, part of a five-point agreement, included security guarantees for Ukraine, a commitment to exclude negotiations with Russia without Kiev’s involvement, and a pledge to uphold Ukraine’s territorial integrity. However, Orban, a long-time critic of military aid to Ukraine and an advocate for peace talks, rejected the proposal, arguing that it conflicted with Hungary’s stance.
“It talks about Ukraine needing to be strengthened so that it can fight even further. And Hungary, of course, did not support it because this was completely contrary to our position in favor of peace,” Orban told reporters after the meeting.
The veto has forced the EU to postpone a final decision on Ukraine’s support until the next leaders’ summit, scheduled for March 20. In the meantime, European Council President Antonio Costa emphasized that the bloc is exploring alternative ways to continue military aid to Ukraine, despite Hungary’s objections.
“Hungary has a different approach on Ukraine; it means Hungary is isolated within the EU27—and 26 are more than one,” Costa said. EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas also hinted at a potential workaround, revealing that the bloc is working on a “coalition of the willing” that would allow member states to provide military assistance to Ukraine without requiring unanimous approval.
The emergency summit was convened amid growing concerns over the impact of US President Donald Trump’s recent policy shift on Ukraine. Reports suggest that Trump has frozen new military aid to Kiev and urged the EU to take greater responsibility for Ukraine’s defense.
While the decision on Ukraine aid was delayed, EU leaders, including Orban, approved a separate initiative to boost European defense spending by up to €800 billion. The plan, dubbed ReArm Europe, was unveiled earlier this week by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, who pledged to present legal proposals within the next two weeks.
Russia has repeatedly warned against Western military support for Ukraine, arguing that it prolongs the conflict and increases the risk of escalation. As the EU grapples with internal divisions and external pressures, the delay in aid underscores the challenges of maintaining unity in the face of a protracted and devastating war.
For now, Ukraine’s fate hangs in the balance as EU leaders work to bridge their differences and find a path forward.
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