New Russia sanctions on hold as Hungary blocks EU package ahead of fourth anniversary of Ukraine war – Europe live

The Guardian - World NewsEN 13 min read 100% complete by Jakub KrupaFebruary 23, 2026 at 11:43 AM

AI Summary

long article 13 min

The European Union is unlikely to agree on a 20th package of sanctions against Russia before the fourth anniversary of the Ukraine war due to Hungary's continued opposition. Hungary is blocking the sanctions, as well as a €90 billion loan for Ukraine, due to a dispute over oil transit via the Druzhba pipeline. Hungarian Foreign Minister Péter Szijjártó stated that oil transit must resume before Hungary allows decisions important to Kyiv to move forward. The failure to agree on the sanctions package is politically embarrassing for the EU, especially as leaders plan to visit Kyiv to mark the anniversary. The situation also comes ahead of Hungary's parliamentary election, where the current prime minister is trailing in the polls and using anti-Ukrainian rhetoric.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Alexander Stubb 30% Rob Jetten 30% Péter Magyar 40% Ursula von der Leyen 40% Brussels ×250% Viktor Orbán 60% Péter Szijjártó 60% Kaja Kallas ×270% Ukraine ×480% Hungary ×680% Russia ×290% European Union ×390%

Keywords

russia sanctions 90% ukraine war 80% hungary 80% ukraine 70% eu 70% oil transit 60% druzhba pipeline 60% viktor orbán 50% european parliament 50% eu-us trade deal 40%