Orban maintains block on 90 billion euro EU loan to Ukraine

European Union leaders were unable to persuade Hungary to end its opposition to a critical financial support package during a summit held in Brussels on Thursday. The deadlock involves a proposed 90-billion-euro ($103 billion) loan intended for Ukraine, which remains stalled despite having received broad agreement from other member states late last year.

Prime Minister Viktor Orban has maintained a firm blockade on the implementation of the funds, citing an ongoing dispute regarding a war-damaged pipeline. His stance has drawn significant criticism from fellow European leaders, particularly as officials warn that Kyiv could face a severe liquidity crisis within weeks if the funding is not released.

The Hungarian leader’s position is complicated by his relatively cordial relations with Russia and a history of diplomatic friction with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy. This persistent veto has raised concerns about the internal cohesion and overall credibility of the European Council, which serves as the highest decision-making body for the bloc. While the loan was initially agreed upon in December, the lack of a breakthrough at the current summit leaves the timeline for disbursement uncertain.