Overview

• Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban allowed EU leaders to unanimously vote for the start of accession talks for Ukraine, despite his previous objections.
• Orban has stated that he will use his veto power if he believes Hungary's interests are at risk, and that there will be many opportunities to interrupt Ukraine's accession process.
• Orban blocked a €50bn aid package to Ukraine, which is seen as a major blow to Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.
• Orban is seen as Russian President Vladimir Putin's closest ally in the EU, and has been accused of promoting Moscow's interests over those of his EU and NATO allies.
• Orban's resistance in Brussels has gained him some bonus points in Moscow, with Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov stating that Hungary's firm defense of its interests is impressive.