The European Commission has stated it cannot confirm reports regarding Hungary’s unblocking of €6.6 billion from the European Peace Facility, which is intended for military support to Ukraine. This announcement was made by Commission spokesperson Anita Hipper on June 4.
Hipper noted, “At this moment, I cannot confirm this, as we are engaged in numerous discussions regarding the European Peace Facility, and these discussions are ongoing. The precise use of the blocked funds is still being negotiated with member states.”
Despite the blockade, Hipper emphasized that member states continue to provide military assistance to Ukraine. She mentioned that EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs, Josep Borrell, is in constant contact with member states to encourage increased supplies of ammunition and support for Ukraine.
Hipper concluded, “Discussions are ongoing, so this is a diplomatic conversation, with no further comments at this stage.”
Context:
- Recent media reports indicated that Hungary’s new government had lifted its veto on partial reimbursement to EU countries for the cost of weapons sent to Ukraine under the European Peace Facility.
- Simultaneously, Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha has called for the European Peace Facility to finance the PURL program and procure additional Patriot systems and interceptors for Ukraine.
- EU member states have submitted requests to the European Commission totaling €43 billion for reimbursement of weapons provided to Ukraine, which are to be partially reimbursed through the European Peace Facility.
- Additionally, the EU is currently replenishing the European Peace Facility with revenues from frozen Russian assets, while the government of Hungary’s Prime Minister Viktor Orbán has filed a lawsuit against the European Peace Facility and the EU Council regarding this decision.
The European Commission has not confirmed Hungary's unblocking of military funds for Ukraine, stating ongoing discussions about the European Peace Facility. Despite this, EU member states continue to support Ukraine militarily.