EU fails to send Russia 'powerful signal' as Hungary blocks 20th sanctions package
The Kyiv Independent • • world
Key Points:
- The EU failed to approve its 20th sanctions package against Russia due to a veto by Hungary, marking a setback ahead of the four-year anniversary of Russia's invasion of Ukraine.
- Hungary's veto is linked to tensions over the Druzhba pipeline, which has been offline since January after Russian strikes, with Budapest accusing Ukraine of delaying repairs and blocking sanctions until oil supplies are restored.
- The proposed sanctions targeted Russian energy, financial, and trade sectors, including a full ban on maritime services for Russian crude oil and expanded restrictions on Russia's shadow fleet and banking sector.
- Hungary also blocked a planned €90 billion EU loan for Kyiv, drawing criticism from sanctions campaigners who accuse Hungary of undermining European security and aiding the Kremlin
