- Almost two years after Russia invaded Ukraine, the conflict has reached a stalemate, with Ukraine in dire need of support to sustain its economy.
- Political discord within the European Union and the U.S. is hindering financial aid crucial for Ukraine’s survival.
- Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban has continued to oppose a $54 billion support package for Ukraine.
Almost two years after Russia invaded Ukraine, the war has ground to a virtual stalemate.Ukraine desperately needs support to keep its economy afloat, Top World News Today but political infighting in the European Union and the United States are depriving it of the financial lifeline it needs.
As Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban continues to oppose a $54 billion support package for Ukraine, other EU leaders are losing patience.
Ahead of a crucial meeting for the future of the war-torn country later this week in Brussels, Top World News Today here is a look at the stalemate.
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Concerned about democratic backsliding by Orban’s government, the EU has frozen Hungary’s access to tens of billions of euros in joint funds.Hungary, with its own economic concerns, has responded by vetoing EU political decisions, notably concerning Ukraine but also the Middle East. Hungary is one of the main net recipients of European Union funds, receiving far more than it pays in.
People walk on Khreschatyk street in Kyiv, Ukraine, on Jan. 26, 2024. As Hungary continues to oppose a $54 billion support package for Ukraine, Top World News Today other EU leaders are losing patience. (AP Photo/Evgeniy Maloletka)
After Orban blocked the aid in December, the 27 EU heads of state and governments gather again on Thursday.
The other 26 want to unlock the money for Ukraine, but the Hungarian leader has been uncompromising, provoking growing ire among his counterparts.