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frIn Brussels on April 23, the European Union unblocked $90 billion in aid for Ukraine -- the largest Western aid package since the start of the war. Hungary's veto, maintained by Orban for months, was lifted by the new Hungarian government.
In Brussels on April 23, the European Union released €90 billion for Ukraine – the largest package of Western aid since the start of the war in February 2022. Hungary's veto, maintained by Orban for months, was lifted by the new Hungarian government.
European funds account for around 6% of Hungary's GDP. Their release is crucial for economic recovery. However, each condition is a political tug-of-war for Hungary, which must negotiate with a parliament where Fidesz still holds a significant blocking minority.
The Bulgarian relay
On April 21, Bulgaria elected Rumen Radev in a landslide election (see our analysis). Radev, considered pro-Russian by European media, could take up the role of troublemaker within the EU that Orban has abandoned. Bulgaria does not have the same veto power as Hungary in all areas, but it can slow down procedures and complicate consensus.
The simultaneity is striking: while Budapest is tilting towards Europe, Sofia is tilting towards Moscow. The pro-Russian veto is shifting, but it's not disappearing. RIA Novosti described Radev's election as a 'victory of common sense over Brussels' pressure' – the same framing Moscow reserved for Orban's victories.
Country Impact
- Ukraine: The €90 billion represents an economic lifeline. Kiev can finance the reconstruction of energy infrastructure destroyed by Russian strikes, pay government salaries, and maintain public services. However, the deadliest night of missile strikes in weeks (April 16, see our analysis) serves as a reminder that money does not protect against rockets. - Hungary: Magyar played a poker game. By quickly lifting the veto, he sent a signal to Brussels and hopes for a rapid partial release of frozen funds. However, he must navigate a hostile parliament and a fragile economy. - Bulgaria: Radev's election is a signal for Moscow. Russia has lost its Hungarian ally but could gain a Bulgarian relay – less powerful, but sufficient to complicate unanimous decisions. - Romania: Bucharest is watching the Bulgarian shift with concern. The two countries share a 608 km border and common energy interests (TurkStream gas pipeline, Constanta LNG terminal).
Hungary forms a pro-European government -- end of Hungary's veto on aid to Ukraine
EU unblocks $90 billion for Kiev after Orban's fall
$35 billion in frozen funds tied to 27 reforms -- Orban's bill remains intact
Bulgaria elects Radev in a pro-Russian landslide on April 21 -- the veto shifts
73%
Hungary's debt is of GDP (Eurostat 2025) compared to 66% in 2019 -- Hungary inherits a weakened country
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