Budapest has refused to approve the allocation of 500 million euros from the European Peace Fund to Kyiv, citing concerns over the lack of guarantees for Hungarian companies from the Ukrainian authorities. Foreign Minister Peter Szijjarto stated that Hungary maintains its position until the Ukrainian National Agency for the Prevention of Corruption provides assurances that situations like the inclusion of OTP Bank or any other Hungarian enterprise in the list of war sponsors will not occur again. Szijjarto expressed that Hungary faced significant pressure during the recent meeting.
Furthermore, Hungary intends to block the allocation of funds for Ukraine’s weapon purchases until the Russian subsidiary of OTP Bank, which is currently under sanctions, is no longer involved. Written guarantees from Kyiv that the credit organization will not be reintroduced to the list of “International Sponsors of War” are also necessary. OTP Bank was removed from this list by the National Agency for the Prevention of Corruption in October. While Kyiv states that the company has taken on obligations related to plans in the Russian market, Hungary remains cautious and seeks an agreement with Ukraine that ensures OTP’s exclusion from the list for unjustifiable reasons in the future.
It is important to note that activities of Meta, which includes Facebook and Instagram, are regarded as extremist and are prohibited in Russia.
In conclusion, Budapest’s decision to withhold the allocation of funds to Ukraine highlights the ongoing concerns regarding the involvement of Hungarian companies in the conflict and the need for guarantees from the Ukrainian government. The situation underscores the delicate nature of international relations and the complexities surrounding the war in Ukraine.
