Poland’s Prime Minister Criticizes Hungary Over Blocked EU Loan for Ukraine
Dispute Over €90 Billion Support Package
Poland’s Prime Minister Donald Tusk on Saturday strongly criticized Hungary for blocking a €90 billion ($106 billion) European Union loan package designed to support Ukraine’s military and economic needs.
EU leaders agreed on the financial package in December. The plan aims to provide Kyiv with budget support for 2026–2027. Lawmakers in the European Parliament approved the arrangement, which would raise funds through EU borrowing on capital markets. The union’s budget would back the borrowing, and Hungary, Slovakia, and the Czech Republic would not need to make direct contributions.
Hungary’s Objection
However, Hungary has not approved a required amendment to the EU’s long-term budget framework. As a result, the loan cannot move forward.
Hungarian Foreign Minister Peter Szijjarto said Budapest will oppose the package until oil deliveries to Hungary through the Druzhba pipeline resume. He argued that Ukraine failed to reopen the route after damage from a Russian drone strike.
Hungary claims the interruption violates the EU-Ukraine Association Agreement. In contrast, Ukrainian officials reject that accusation.
Tusk Warns of Risks to Unity
In response, Tusk said Hungary’s veto threatens European unity and weakens Ukraine’s ability to defend itself against Russian aggression. Earlier, after the December EU summit, he described the loan as essential support that would not burden Polish taxpayers. He emphasized that Ukraine would repay the funds once reparations from Russia become available.
Concerns in Brussels
Meanwhile, officials in Brussels have expressed concern that unanimity rules on certain budget decisions allow individual member states to block collective action.
The European Commission has stated that it expects all member countries to respect the political agreement behind the loan. The commission also stressed that unity remains vital to maintaining financial support for Ukraine.
Political Context
Hungary’s position comes at a sensitive time in domestic politics. Prime Minister Viktor Orban faces elections in April, and his government has frequently resisted EU sanctions and aid packages for Kyiv. Several EU capitals worry that continued delays could weaken financial assistance during a critical period for Ukraine’s war effort.
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