Brussels Unblocks EUR10.2bn To Hungary, Could Smooth Path To Ukraine Aid

As was widely anticipated, the European Commission has released a statement confirming the unblocking of EUR10,2bn in previously-frozen cohesion funding to Hungary in a move that is widely viewed as an effort to soften PM Viktor Orban's stance on approving EUR50bn in aid to Ukraine over the coming years.

• Statement claims that "After a thorough assessment, and several exchanges with the Hungarian government, the Commission considers that Hungary has taken the measures it committed to take in order for the Commission to consider that the horizontal enabling condition on the EU Charter of Fundamental Rights is fulfilled in what concerns judicial independence. This means part of the Cohesion Policy funding would no longer be blocked, and therefore Hungary may start claiming reimbursements of up to around €10.2 billion."
• The European Council summit taking place 14-15 Dec has become overshadowed by the prospect of Orban vetoing both the revisions to the EU's long-term budget that would allow for the provision of EUR50bn to Ukraine over the period 2024-27, as well as blocking the start of EU accession talks with Kyiv.
• The unfreezing of funds may alleviate Orban's pressure on the first issue, but there is no guarantee he will acquiesce on the second, even if - as has been rumoured - Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy attends the EUCO in person tomorrow. Indeed, Zelenskyy's presence could see the Hungarian leader dig his heels in even more.
• Doorstep comments from national leaders expected from 0830CET (0730GMT) on the morning of 14 Dec. Livestream here.