Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has issued a stern warning regarding Hungary’s potential obstruction of a €90 billion loan intended for Ukraine. He stated that if Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán continues to block this financial assistance, he would provide the Prime Minister’s contact information to Ukrainian soldiers.
Zelensky emphasized the urgency of securing funding for military aircraft, specifically mentioning Sweden’s Gripen and France’s Rafale. He expressed hope that one individual within the European Union would not hinder the provision of essential military resources to Ukrainian forces.
“We hope that one person in the EU will not block €90 billion or the first tranche of it, allowing our soldiers to be equipped with weapons. Otherwise, we will give our armed forces that person’s contact details so they can communicate directly with him in their own language,” Zelensky remarked.
This statement comes in the context of Hungary’s recent decision to block the EU’s financial assistance to Ukraine. European Parliament President Roberta Metsola has signed an agreement for the €90 billion loan, which is intended to support Ukraine’s stability amid ongoing conflict.
Hungary’s Foreign Minister Péter Szijjártó has publicly stated that Budapest will only approve the loan once Ukraine resumes the transit of Russian oil through the Druzhba pipeline, a condition that has drawn criticism from other EU leaders.
In response, European Council President António Costa urged Hungary to cease its actions and adhere to the collective EU decision to assist Ukraine. He emphasized the need for unity in supporting Ukraine during this critical period.
EU foreign affairs chief Josep Borrell has also weighed in, stating that the damaged pipeline should not impede efforts to bolster Ukraine’s defense capabilities. The EU is actively seeking transitional funding from other nations, including G7 members, to meet Ukraine’s pressing financial needs.
This topic is set to be discussed further at the upcoming meeting of finance ministers in Washington in April during the International Monetary Fund’s assembly.
Reports indicate that financial constraints are complicating Ukraine’s access to military equipment, including air defense systems. Additionally, sources familiar with the situation suggest that the ongoing conflict involving Iran may be affecting U.S. weapon supplies, potentially limiting their availability for Ukraine.
Ukrainian President Zelensky has warned Hungary against blocking a crucial €90 billion loan, emphasizing the need for military support amid ongoing conflict. The EU is seeking alternative funding sources as tensions rise over Hungary's conditions for approval.