EU seeks to insulate itself from Viktor Orbán’s vetoes

European capitals are strategizing to counter Viktor Orbán's increased use of vetoes as Hungary prepares to assume the EU presidency on July 1, Caliber.Az reports citing foreign media.

Orbán has recently blocked numerous foreign and security policy decisions, aiming to unfreeze EU funds tied to rule of law concerns.

The outgoing Belgian EU presidency has proposed measures to bypass Budapest's vetoes, including using qualified majority voting and requiring clearer justifications for veto use. These efforts are aimed at curbing Orbán's opposition to EU sanctions on Russia and support for Ukraine.

Hungary's obstructionism, particularly concerning decisions worth €6.6 billion for Ukraine, has sparked discussions among EU states on boycotting meetings in Hungary and invoking Article 7, which could suspend Hungary's voting rights.

Despite Hungary's efforts to link its veto to accessing €6.3 billion in frozen EU funds, Brussels has rejected this proposal, fearing political backlash.

Hungarian officials argue for a ceasefire in Ukraine rather than arms shipments, citing concerns over discrimination against Hungarian companies.