During a closed session of the European Council summit, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni surprised EU leaders by expressing understanding for Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban’s decision to block aid to Ukraine.
Sources familiar with the confidential discussions reported that Meloni stated she “fully understands” Orban’s reasons for retracting a previously promised €90 billion loan to Ukraine. Instead of supporting the aid, Orban has chosen to obstruct it.
A diplomat, speaking on condition of anonymity, quoted Meloni as describing Orban’s stance as “normal,” given that “everything is changing” and noting that he is approaching an election.
Meloni reportedly said, “If I were in the same situation, I would understand it.” While both leaders represent right-wing parties in their respective countries, Meloni has generally aligned with the EU’s mainstream policies, unlike Orban, whose government is seen as a major obstacle to supporting Kyiv.
However, Meloni’s office in Rome has categorically denied these claims, labeling the diplomatic reports as “completely unfounded” and asserting that her comments were misrepresented.
The issue of the loan has been contentious, as Orban, who has pro-Russian tendencies, initially approved the €90 billion credit for Ukraine in December but later blocked it, provoking outrage within the EU. This action has crossed a line that many EU officials believe cannot be overlooked.
Germany has expressed its discontent, while Sweden has openly indicated its willingness to consider Article 7 of the EU Treaty, a mechanism that could strip Hungary of its voting rights. European Council President António Costa has called Orban’s behavior “unacceptable.”
Despite the tensions, discussions at the summit suggested that the EU could begin disbursing funds to Ukraine under the €90 billion loan framework as early as April. However, no agreement was reached on the first day of negotiations.
Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni's remarks at the EU summit regarding Viktor Orban's blockade of Ukrainian aid have sparked controversy and denials from her office. The situation highlights ongoing tensions within the EU regarding support for Ukraine.