Hungary hinders European Union statement concerning Russian missile assault
The European Union (EU) has failed to issue a joint declaration condemning Russia's air strikes on Ukraine due to the opposition of one of its member states, Hungary. The declaration, which was intended to express the EU's stance on Russia's actions and to condemn the air strikes, was published by the EU foreign policy chief, Kaja Kallas, on behalf of 26 EU member states, not all 27.
The joint declaration states that the Russian air strikes on Ukraine once again demonstrate Russia's reckless approach and disregard for international law. It also condemns Russia for endangering the lives of diplomats and diplomatic staff, which is a clear violation of the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations. This comes after the EU delegation building in Kyiv was severely damaged in the Russian air strikes.
However, Hungary's opposition to the joint declaration is primarily due to the pledge to intensify support for Ukraine, including the 19th package of sanctions against Russia. The Hungarian government believes that the EU's punitive measures against Russia are causing more harm than good. This veto caused particular frustration within the EU, as the Russian airstrikes heavily damaged the EU delegation building in Kyiv, and the declaration would have emphasized that endangering diplomats violates the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations.
The joint declaration does not include Hungary due to its opposition. The EU foreign policy chief, Kaja Kallas, could only publish the text of the declaration on behalf of 26 states, not all 27. Hungary's opposition to the joint declaration resulted in it not being issued by all EU member states.
The Hungarian government's stance has caused frustration within the EU, with many member states viewing Hungary's decision as a hindrance to the bloc's ability to respond effectively to Russia's actions. The EU will continue to work towards a unified response to Russia's air strikes on Ukraine, and Hungary's opposition will likely be a topic of discussion in future meetings.
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