The European Union hit a roadblock Thursday after Hungary vetoed a €30 billion military aid package for Ukraine at an emergency summit in Brussels. Despite overwhelming support from the other 26 member states, Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán refused to sign off, arguing the deal contradicted his push for peace negotiations rather than prolonged conflict.
“The agreement was all about strengthening Ukraine so it could fight even longer,” Orbán said. “That’s not Hungary’s position.”
The proposed deal included security guarantees, a pledge to support Ukraine’s territorial integrity, and a commitment that no talks with Russia would happen without Kyiv’s involvement. With Hungary standing firm, the issue is now pushed to the next EU summit on March 20.
But EU officials aren’t backing down. European Council President António Costa dismissed Hungary’s opposition, pointing out that “26 is more than one.” Meanwhile, foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas suggested a workaround—forming a “coalition of the willing” to funnel aid to Ukraine without requiring unanimous approval.
The delay comes as the EU scrambles to respond to shifting US policy. Reports suggest Donald Trump has frozen new military aid to Ukraine, pressuring Europe to shoulder more of the burden.
Though the Ukraine package remains stalled, EU leaders—including Orbán—did approve a massive €800 billion defense spending boost under the new “ReArm Europe” initiative. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen is expected to roll out legal proposals in the coming weeks.
Moscow, as expected, warned that Western military support only fuels the war and risks escalation. With divisions growing within the EU, the question remains: Will Brussels force a way forward, or will Hungary continue to stand in its path?
