During a recent summit in Brussels, European Council President António Costa openly criticized both Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. This revelation comes from an EU official who spoke to Radio Free Europe, highlighting tensions within the bloc regarding support for Ukraine.
The discussion, which lasted for approximately 90 minutes prior to a video call with Zelensky, saw Orban emphasizing the need to resume operations of the Druzhba oil pipeline. Costa responded by condemning Orban’s actions, particularly his obstruction of a crucial €90 billion loan for Ukraine, arguing that such behavior contradicts the principles of EU treaties, including loyalty and good faith.
In his remarks, Costa referenced the ongoing situation with the Druzhba pipeline and his collaboration with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen to support Ukraine. He noted that Zelensky had effectively agreed to accept EU assistance and fulfill his commitments regarding energy supply to the bloc.
However, Costa also pointed out that some of Zelensky’s past statements were inappropriate in tone and ultimately unhelpful, suggesting that they inadvertently defended Orban’s position. Following this exchange, leaders engaged in further discussions before moving to the video conference with Zelensky, where they concluded the summit without approving the initial tranche of the loan for Ukraine.
In the lead-up to the summit, Western diplomats expressed growing skepticism about Hungary’s willingness to unblock the €90 billion loan for Ukraine. Despite intensive negotiations and pressure from EU leadership, there were no indications that Budapest would alter its stance.
Both Slovakia and Hungary are currently blocking the approval of the 20th sanctions package against Russia and the multi-billion euro loan for Ukraine, which EU leaders had agreed upon during a previous summit in December. The two nations have vowed to maintain their veto until the transportation of Russian raw materials through the Druzhba pipeline is restored.
The recent EU summit in Brussels revealed significant tensions among member states, particularly regarding Hungary's obstruction of financial support for Ukraine. President António Costa criticized both Viktor Orban and Volodymyr Zelensky, emphasizing the need for unity in addressing the ongoing crisis.
Source: Radio Free Europe