EU prepares "plan B" in case Hungary blocks sanctions against Russia - media
The European Union is preparing for Hungary's possible blocking of the extension of sanctions against Russia in June 2025 and is developing alternative legal mechanisms that will allow it to maintain the restrictions.
This is reported by European Pravda with reference to European Affairs Editor Rikard Jozwiak, Censor.NET informs.
The problem arises because the extension of sanctions requires the unanimity of member states on the relevant resolution. Hungary has previously blocked similar decisions, so Brussels is working on options to circumvent its veto.
Among the possible solutions:
- Applying only a decision without a resolution. European sanctions are based on two documents - a decision and a resolution. The decision formally remains in force until it is cancelled by a qualified majority. This approach is considered temporary, but legally vulnerable.
- A new sanctions package. The European Commission may propose a 17th package of sanctions and exchange it for Hungary's refusal to block the extension of existing restrictions. This will allow Budapest to publicly declare its "victory".
- Introduction of high tariffs. If the sanctions cannot be extended, import/export tariffs may be imposed, which do not require unanimity but do not fully replace sanctions.
- National sanctions. Some countries may impose sanctions on their own at the national level, as has already been the case with certain individuals on the sanctions list. However, not all countries have the domestic framework to do so.
In addition to sanctions, Brussels is also considering options to influence Hungary to lift the blockade on Ukraine's accession to the EU. Possible arguments include unfreezing part of the funding that was frozen due to the rule of law in Hungary.
