Tamara Capeta, the advocate general of the European Court of Justice (ECJ), has urged the European Commission to annul over €10 billion in cohesion funds that were allocated to Hungary in 2023. This funding was initially awarded as a strategic move to secure Hungary's agreement on a significant military aid package for Ukraine amidst ongoing tensions in the region. The recommendation comes as part of a larger dialogue surrounding the EU's adherence to its Charter of Fundamental Rights, citing Budapest's violations in areas such as migration policies and LGBTQ rights, as well as issues related to academic freedom.

In December 2023, the European Commission released approximately half of the €22 billion designated for Hungary, a sum that had previously been frozen due to Hungary's contentious political stance. This freezing of funds prompted discussions about compliance with EU norms and obligations, particularly as Budapest was accused of undermining core EU principles. The release of these funds was seen as a precondition for securing Hungary's support for a broader €50 billion military support package for Ukraine, which Hungary had been resistant to endorse.

Capeta's assertion that Budapest has not sufficiently met the required conditions underlines a growing rift between the EU and Hungary, as Prime Minister Viktor Orban's government has been facing escalating scrutiny over its policies. The implications of this call to annul funds are significant, potentially leading to further financial consequences for Hungary and amplifying tensions within the EU regarding compliance with fundamental rights and democratic principles, especially in light of Hungary's key role in geopolitical maneuvering within the bloc.