Orbán threatens to veto: Hungary is fighting for blocked EU billions!

Orbán threatens to veto: Hungary is fighting for blocked EU billions!

In a tense power game with the European Union, Hungary's Prime Minister Viktor Orbán is threatening to block the upcoming EU budget with a veto if the EU Commission does not release the almost twelve billion euros earmarked for Hungary. This sum currently remains blocked due to concerns about the rule of law in Hungary. Orbán said in an interview with Hungarian state broadcaster that he would not support the approval of the new seven-year budget if the blocked funds are not taken into account in the next budget framework RND reported.

The EU is withholding the funds because Hungary has to carry out reforms before they are released, particularly in the fight against corruption and conflicts of interest. Orbán, who has already drawn attention to himself several times by threatening to veto the EU Commission, is aware of the importance of these funds for his country's economic situation. He explained: “We must ensure that no factories close in Hungary” to compensate for the worryingly low growth rate and high budget deficit crown.

Economic concerns and domestic political pressure

Compounding the situation for Orbán is the fact that his party, Fidesz, is losing ground in polls and falling behind the opposition TISZA party. The ongoing negotiations on the long-term EU budget from 2028 to 2035, which are expected to start in mid-2025, could provide additional leverage in this conflict. Orbán faces the challenge of both ensuring domestic political stability and meeting EU demands to secure much-needed financial resources.