Analysis: Hungary could prove to be a child with problems with EU families regarding Russian sanctions
By European correspondent Sioban Robbins
It is not surprising that Hungary rejects a statement of support for Ukraine, but it will be a disappointment for the Bullock, who is eager to show that it is united.
Hungarian Prime Minister Victor Orban had flagged opposition ahead of time and had called on the EU to engage in direct negotiations with Russia.
He never hides his praise for the Russian president, and repeatedly blocks aid to Ukraine.
Within 24 hours of today’s meeting, French President Emmanuel Macron invited him to Paris.
However, Orban clearly chose to stick to Donald Trump, another strongman leader who has been sides with Ukraine since he took office.
In the end, the remaining 26 members supported the statement without him.
This time it was a quick fix, but when it comes to Vladimir Putin, it will not disguise a division deep in EU position.
The devil will be in detail
The Ukraine statement includes a pledge to intensify pressure on Russia with further sanctions.
Again, Hungary can prove to be a problem child in the EU family if they block them in the future.
In a more positive note, European Union leaders support a new spending plan aimed at freeing billions for Europe’s security.
However, the nation behind the seemingly unified front seems to have a different view on the best way to suggest that the devil may be in detail when they meet again later this month.
