As the war in Ukraine enters its second year, the unity of the European Union is being tested. A $54 billion financial aid package aimed at supporting Ukraine's war-torn economy was the focus at a gathering of EU leaders on Feb. 1. However, this seemingly well-intentioned aid program unexpectedly ran into a "roadblock" for Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban.
Orban's hardline stance stems from deep contradictions with the EU. As the leader of the European Union, which has the closest ties to Russia, he was outraged by the European Commission's decision to freeze Hungary's **part of the EU** access. Behind this administrative move is the EU's concern that a backsliding on Hungarian democracy could threaten the EU budget. However, Orban chose to retaliate by vetoing a series of EU statements, and even pointing the finger at NATO to block a high-level meeting with Ukraine, showing the power of the "veto" in his hands.
Hungary's "one-vote veto" shook the EU
In this intra-EU wrestling, Orban's actions have undoubtedly cast a shadow over the EU's unity. Estonian Prime Minister Kaja Kallas's remarks were frustrating and frustrating, and although she avoided using the word "blackmail", the implication was self-evident. Orbán's approach does resemble a kind of "blackmail" in a way – using his veto power in exchange for concessions from the EU on the issue of democracy in Hungary.
German Chancellor Olaf Scholz's statement shows the firm support of the mainstream EU countries for Ukraine's aid. He stressed that the planned 50 billion euros is "urgently necessary" for Ukraine and said he would work with other leaders to bring all 27 member states to agreement. Scholz's remarks undoubtedly put pressure on Orban and highlighted the EU's unity and determination on the Ukraine issue.
Ukraine's expectations and the EU's dilemma
Ukrainian Volodymyr Zelensky will address the leader via a link, which undoubtedly adds to the urgency and importance of this rally. Zelensky's speech will be a direct test of EU unity and a challenge to Orban's position. Ukraine urgently needs this aid to support its war efforts and economic reconstruction, while the EU's indecision and internal contradictions could bring uncertainty to the situation in Ukraine.
However, the EU's dilemma is not just Hungary's veto. The deeper problem is that the EU needs the unanimous consent of all member states when faced with major decisions. This "one-vote veto" system not only protects the rights and interests of member states, but also increases the difficulty and complexity of decision-making. On the issue of aid to Ukraine, the EU's unity and decision-making efficiency have been severely tested.
Future outlook and possible progress
Looking ahead, the tussle between the EU and Hungary is likely to continue. Orban is likely to use his veto power to continue bargaining with the EU, which needs to find a balance between maintaining solidarity and supporting Ukraine. The final outcome of this internal wrestling will have a direct impact on the situation and future direction of the war in Ukraine.
One possible development is for the EU to reach a compromise with Hungary through diplomatic means to lift aid restrictions on Ukraine. This may require the EU to make some concessions on the issue of Hungarian democracy in exchange for Orban's support. Another possibility is that Orban softened his stance in the face of domestic and foreign pressure and allowed the aid package to pass. But whatever the outcome, the internal tussle will be a litmus test of the EU's ability to unite and make decisions.
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