European Commission releases 10 billion euros to Hungary after judicial reforms, coinciding with Ukraine aid deal.
EU Funds Release
The European Commission had blocked over 10 billion euros in cohesion funds due to evident problems with the independence of the Hungarian judiciary. On December 13, 2023, however, it acknowledged that Hungary had made sufficient progress to unblock these funds.
Strategic Timing
This decision occurred just one day before an EU summit where leaders agreed to commence accession negotiations with Ukraine. The proximity of these events has raised questions about possible connections between the two matters.
Ukraine Aid Package
Subsequently, in February 2024, a 50 billion euro support package for Ukraine was successfully implemented. Both the Hungarian funds and Ukraine aid package could have been blocked by Hungary alone.
Controversial Concessions
While Viktor Orbán was persuaded to make concessions, numerous MEPs believe the manner in which this was accomplished undermines the values upon which the European Union should be built.
