In a significant development following the European Union foreign ministers' meeting on February 19, Hungary's Foreign Minister Peter Szijjarto announced that Budapest would not obstruct the adoption of the EU's 13th package of sanctions against Russia. This statement, sourced from "European Pravda" based on Szijjarto's remarks during a press conference, marks a pivotal moment in the EU's ongoing response to the situation in Ukraine.
Hungary's Stance on Sanctions
Szijjarto's declaration comes against the backdrop of Hungary's previous resistance to certain sanction measures deemed harmful to its national interests. According to the Hungarian Foreign Minister, all elements of the 13th sanction package that could potentially damage Hungary's economic interests have been removed, clearing the path for Hungary's support of the package. However, Szijjarto did not shy away from expressing his usual critique of EU policies, emphasizing that the fundamental economic interests of Hungary are not compromised by the measures listed in the sanctions.
Critique of EU's Strategy
The Foreign Minister voiced his concerns over the EU's strategy, suggesting it has failed to bring peace closer, instead pushing it further away. "The EU continues a completely failed strategy that does not bring us closer to peace but moves us further from it," Szijjarto remarked. He highlighted the economic damage inflicted on the EU by previous sanction packages and pointed out the prevailing "military psychosis" within the Union, asserting the conflict in Ukraine is unlikely to conclude through military means.
The 13th Sanction Package
Scheduled for adoption by the EU foreign ministers in Brussels on February 19, the 13th sanction package against Russia represents a continuation of the EU's efforts to respond to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Media reports suggest that the package could also target North Korea for providing Russia with missiles used against Ukraine. This move signifies the EU's broader approach to countering not only the immediate threats but also addressing the support network aiding Russia's military efforts.
Previous Objections and Adjustments
The announcement follows last week's news that Hungary had blocked the approval of the 13th sanction package due to the inclusion of Chinese companies in the list of new sanctions. This stance by Hungary underscores the complex considerations EU member states must navigate in balancing their national interests with collective EU policies. The adjustment of the sanction package to address Hungary's concerns illustrates the EU's internal negotiation processes and the importance of unity in its foreign policy stance.
Conclusion
Hungary's decision to support the 13th EU sanction package against Russia, following the exclusion of measures harmful to Hungarian interests, marks a noteworthy moment in the EU's diplomatic and economic measures against Russia. While Szijjarto's criticisms of the EU's strategy underscore the challenges and divisions within the Union, the ultimate removal of Hungary's objections reflects a compromise and a step towards unified action. As the EU continues to navigate its response to the conflict in Ukraine and its implications for the bloc's economic and security landscape, the dynamics of internal negotiations and the balance of national and collective interests remain crucial.
