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Hungary must not 'betray its own struggle for freedom' by blocking Russia sanctions, says German minister

Published by Global Banking & Finance Review

Posted on February 23, 2026

1 min read

· Last updated: April 2, 2026

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BERLIN, Feb 23 (Reuters) - EU foreign ministers will urge Hungary to rethink its decision to block the European Union's next package of sanctions against Russia, German Foreign Minister Johann

Hungary urged not to betray its freedom fight by blocking Russia sanctions

EU Ministers Urge Hungary to Reconsider Sanctions Block

BERLIN, Feb 23 (Reuters) - EU foreign ministers will urge Hungary to rethink its decision to block the European Union's next package of sanctions against Russia, German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul said in Brussels on Monday.

German Minister’s Warning on Freedom and Sovereignty

"I do not believe it is right for Hungary to betray its own struggle for freedom and European sovereignty," Wadephul said.

Planned Outreach in Budapest and Brussels

"That is why we will once again present our arguments to the Hungarians in Budapest, but also here in Brussels, of course, and ask them to reconsider their position," he added.

Reporting and Editing Credits

(Reporting by Friederike HeineEditing by Ludwig Burger)

Key Takeaways

  • EU foreign ministers plan to urge Hungary to reconsider blocking the next Russia sanctions package.
  • A German minister criticized Budapest’s stance, invoking Europe’s struggle for freedom.
  • The standoff centers on whether the EU can move forward unanimously on new Russia measures.
  • Diplomatic outreach is expected in both Brussels and Budapest to break the impasse.
  • The dispute underscores tensions between national positions and EU-wide policy on Russia.

References

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the main topic?
EU foreign ministers are urging Hungary to reconsider its move to block the bloc’s next package of sanctions against Russia, a stance criticized by a German minister.
Why is Hungary’s decision significant?
EU sanctions require unanimity. Hungary’s veto can delay or derail the next package targeting Russia, affecting the bloc’s collective response and market expectations.
What happens next?
Ministers plan renewed outreach in Brussels and Budapest to seek a reversal of Hungary’s position and secure consensus for the sanctions package.

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