Analysis: Hungary could prove to be EU family’s problem child over Russia sanctions
By Siobhan Robbins, Europe correspondent
Hungary’s vetoing of a statement of support for Ukraine isn’t a surprise, but it will be a disappointment to a bloc keen to show it’s united.
Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban had flagged his opposition well in advance, calling for the EU to engage in direct negotiations with Russia.
He’s never hidden his admiration for the Russian president and has repeatedly blocked aid for Ukraine.
Less than 24 hours before today’s meeting, French President Emmanuel Macron invited him to Paris, no doubt hoping he could win him over.
But Orban clearly chose to stick with Donald Trump, another strongman leader who he’s sided with on Ukraine since his return to office.
In the end, the remaining 26 members backed the statement without him.
It was a quick-fix this time, but there’s no disguising deep divisions in the EU position when it comes to Vladimir Putin.
Devil will be in detail
The statement on Ukraine includes a pledge to step up pressure on Russia with further sanctions.
Again, Hungary could prove itself the problem child of the EU family if it blocks these in future.
On a more positive note, European Union leaders have backed new spending plans aimed at freeing up billions for Europe’s security.
But behind the seemingly united front, countries seem to have different views about the best way forward – suggesting the devil could be in the detail when they meet again later this month.