The European Union has reiterated its intention to provide Ukraine with a €90 billion loan, despite ongoing resistance from Hungary. Ursula von der Leyen, the President of the European Commission, emphasized that the EU will fulfill its promise to Ukraine, stating, “We will deliver on our commitment one way or another,” in response to Hungary’s refusal to support the loan.
António Costa, President of the European Council, also assured that the funds would eventually reach Ukraine. During a recent summit, EU leaders chose not to revisit the loan discussions but instead condemned Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán’s withdrawal from his previous commitment to back the financial aid.
“All leaders must keep their word. No one can blackmail the European Council or the institutions of the European Union. We must implement this decision regarding the loan to Ukraine,” Costa stated.
Hungary’s blockade of the loan has raised concerns within the EU, as unanimous agreement among member states is required for the funds to be disbursed. The situation escalated after Hungary halted the transit of Russian oil through the Druzhba pipeline, which Budapest claims was initiated by Ukraine.
Despite Hungary’s systematic obstruction, the EU continues to prepare for the technical aspects of disbursing the €90 billion loan. Brussels is focused on ensuring that political hurdles do not impede the provision of financial assistance to Ukraine.
On March 19, EU leaders convened in Brussels to address pressing issues, including the war in Iran and support for Ukraine. However, attempts to persuade Prime Minister Orbán to lift his veto on the loan were unsuccessful.
For further insights into the discussions in Brussels and the EU’s plans regarding Ukraine, additional information can be found in related reports.
The European Union remains committed to providing a €90 billion loan to Ukraine, despite Hungary's ongoing blockade. EU leaders have condemned Hungary's actions while continuing to prepare for the loan's technical disbursement.