Hungary impedes EU declaration regarding Russian missile assault

The European Union (EU) issued a joint statement condemning Russia's recent air strikes on Ukraine, but Hungary's opposition to the statement has caused a divide among member states.

The joint statement, issued by all 27 EU member states except Hungary, strongly condemned Russia's air strikes as a demonstration of Russia's reckless approach and disregard for international law. The statement also highlighted the need for a strong response from the international community.

Kaja Kallas, the EU foreign policy chief, published the text of the joint statement on behalf of 26 EU member states. However, Hungary's opposition to the statement is linked to a pledge to increase support for Ukraine, including the acceleration of work on a 19th package of sanctions against Russia.

Hungary's government has repeatedly expressed the view that EU sanctions are more harmful than beneficial. The Hungarian government vetoed the EU declaration primarily because the statement included a commitment to increase support for Ukraine in all areas and to accelerate work on the 19th sanctions package against Russia, which Hungary claims harms more than helps.

The Russian airstrikes on the EU representation in Kyiv endangered the lives of diplomats and diplomatic staff, which is a clear violation of the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations. The EU representation in Kyiv, Ukraine, was severely damaged in the Russian airstrikes, adding to the frustration caused by Hungary's veto.

The joint statement does not provide details about the 19th package of sanctions against Russia, only that Hungary has pledged to accelerate work on it. The EU joint statement does not discuss the potential impact of the Russian airstrikes on the EU representation in Kyiv beyond condemning the attacks and their violation of international law.

Despite Hungary's opposition, the joint statement by the EU member states collectively, excluding Hungary, sends a strong message to Russia about the international community's stance on its actions in Ukraine. The joint statement serves as a reminder that the EU stands firm in its commitment to uphold international law and to support Ukraine in its time of need.