Feb 11 • 20:00 UTC 🇪🇪 Estonia Postimees

Hungary blocks Estonia from receiving compensation for weapons sent to Ukraine

Hungary has blocked Estonia and several other EU countries from receiving compensation for military aid sent to Ukraine, totaling 6.6 billion euros.

Estonia, along with several other European Union countries, finds itself in a predicament as Hungary has obstructed the compensation that Brussels promised for the military support sent to Ukraine. This financial aid, amounting to 6.6 billion euros, is crucial for many nations that have contributed to Ukraine's defense amidst the ongoing conflict. Hungary's rationale for the blockade appears to be tied to vague claims that a military solution is not feasible in Ukraine and that only diplomacy should prevail, thus hindering the refund process.

Lauri Kuusing, Estonia's ambassador to the EU's Political and Security Committee, noted that despite the challenges, Estonia has managed reasonably well since it initiated its financial assistance to Ukraine through the fund in 2022. A significant portion of the military aid, including the highly regarded Javelin missiles, was sent shortly after the full-scale war began, during a period when reimbursements were still being issued and were generally more substantial. This raised hopes that Estonia would continue to support Ukraine while relying on the EU's compensation for its contributions.

The ongoing impasse not only highlights Hungary's unique position within the EU regarding Ukraine but also underscores the broader implications of political relations within the union. With the aid to Ukraine being a point of contention, the member states' ability to collectively respond to the Ukraine crisis is being tested, calling into question the unity of the EU in times of geopolitical strife. Such challenges may lead to a reassessment of bilateral relationships, with countries like Estonia needing to consider alternative methods to sustain their support for Ukraine while navigating the complex political landscape dictated by Hungary's stance.

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