The European Union is facing a fresh internal rift as Hungary moves to block new sanctions against Russia, exposing divisions within the bloc nearly four years after Moscow’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine.
EU foreign ministers met in Brussels hoping to approve another package of measures targeting Russia’s energy revenues and logistics networks. However, Hungary signaled it would veto the plan unless oil deliveries through the Druzhba pipeline disrupted after damage inside Ukraine are restored.
Budapest argues the halted supplies threaten its energy security and economy. Hungarian officials also warned they could stall a major European financial aid package intended to support Ukraine’s defense and stability.
Ukraine, meanwhile, accuses Hungary of using political pressure during wartime and rejects the claim that it deliberately blocked the flow of oil.
The dispute comes at a sensitive moment as the EU seeks to demonstrate unity ahead of the anniversary of Russia’s invasion. European leaders fear the disagreement could weaken the bloc’s collective strategy toward Moscow and complicate military and economic assistance to Kyiv.
Several European governments, including Germany and France, have urged Budapest to reconsider its position, stressing that maintaining a united front is crucial for both security and diplomacy.
Despite negotiations continuing behind closed doors, officials acknowledged progress remains uncertain.
The standoff highlights how energy dependence and national interests continue to shape European politics during the war. As fighting persists in Ukraine, the EU now faces a difficult balancing act supporting Kyiv while keeping all member states aligned on sanctions against Russia.
