Hungary vetoes Ukraine's EU talks - When veto could be lifted

It is noted that the EU summit failed to reach a consensus on a joint declaration in support of Ukraine due to Hungary's veto, which also derailed the launch of accession negotiations for Ukraine's EU membership.

All EU member states, except Hungary, declared that the European Council reaffirms Ukraine's inalienable right to self-determination and strongly supports its aspiration to join the European Union. They also praised the pace of reforms in Ukraine and acknowledged the country's significant progress.

In addition, 26 member states called on Ukraine and the European Commission to step up efforts in preparing for EU accession.

The fact that only 26 out of 27 EU countries (all except Hungary) supported these conclusions means that there will be no official decision to open the first negotiation cluster until Hungary changes its position (unlike Moldova, where this step will be taken soon).

According to RBC-Ukraine's informed sources, Hungary is unlikely to lift its veto before its national elections, which are scheduled for the spring of next year. Therefore, most likely, Ukraine and the EU will focus on intensifying technical work, particularly the implementation of necessary reforms, but formal progress (such as the opening of negotiation clusters) should not be expected for now due to Hungary's position.

Ukraine's EU accession

Hungarian leadership has repeatedly voiced its opposition to Ukraine's membership in the European Union. Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, in particular, has emphasized that he will do everything possible to prevent it.

Orbán also initiated a series of polls in Hungary among citizens about their attitudes toward Ukraine's accession to the EU.

In addition, the Hungarian Prime Minister opposes Ukraine's integration into NATO.

Read more about why Hungary is blocking the start of Ukraine's EU accession talks in the material by RBC-Ukraine.