The ongoing conflict in Ukraine has dominated discussions at the recently convened EU summit in Brussels. European leaders are considering substantially boosting funding to aid Ukraine in its defense against Russia and fast-tracking its bid for EU membership. However, Hungary's Prime Minister, a known ally of Russian President Putin, is expected to thwart these plans. The EU operates on a principle of unanimity, meaning that any decision regarding Ukraine's future in the Union must be unanimously accepted by all member states.
Backdoor meetings between Hungary's Prime Minister, the German chancellor, the French president, and other significant EU players have been underway to sway the outcome. Interestingly, this comes after the EU recently released €10 billion worth of earlier frozen funds to Hungary. Critics have termed this move as potential 'bribery', suggesting that Hungary is acting as a 'Trojan horse' for Putin and reportedly disrupting discussions regarding Ukraine's prospective EU membership.
Hungary has openly disagreed with both, Ukraine's bid to join the EU and the proposed increase in financial assistance. The aid amount being debated currently stands at €50 billion for Ukraine's economic sustenance and an additional €20 billion for defense aid to combat Russia's invasion.
Adding to the mix, Ukraine's President Zelensky's likely surprise visit to the summit could potentially agitate matters further, given his history of making such surprise visits in times of crisis.
Meanwhile, in Russia, President Putin combined an annual press conference with a public phone-in to field questions relating to the ongoing conflict. As Russia grapples with problems of inflation and declining economy, Putin chose to underline the positives, discussing bolstering Russia's military readiness and sovereignty. His detailed views on Russia's 'Special Military Operation' reaffirmed the nation's resolve to achieve its stated goals— the denazification and demilitarization of Ukraine. The ongoing international discussions, Putin's conference, and Ukraine's prevailing situations -- these factors are seen strengthening Russia's resolve to outlast Ukraine in the conflict.
