All news
Orban Blocks Russia Sanctions Extension, Creating Problems for Ukraine's Funding
The European publication Politico reported that Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban is refusing to extend sanctions against Russia, complicating EU plans to finance Ukraine with frozen Russian assets. Sources say Orban is trying to delay the decision until after the US presidential election, which could help if Donald Trump wins.
The EU has debated extending the sanctions every six months, but last October proposed extending them to three years. The move would allow Ukraine to lend €35 billion using proceeds from Russia’s frozen assets. But Orban has resisted change, saying the issue should only be resolved after the US election results. That could help Trump, who has previously promised to cut aid to Ukraine.
At the same time, the US is still ready to participate in financing Ukraine, but on the condition of extending sanctions for a longer period. But European countries, faced with a budget deficit, do not want to compensate for the possible reduction in America's share.
Earlier, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen reportedly criticized Orban's peace proposals.