European Union leaders confront a stormy summit Thursday. Three crises dominate: Hungary’s veto on Ukraine financing, Middle East warfare, and persistent energy inflation.
Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán blocked the €90 billion aid package for Ukraine. He cites oil delivery interruptions via the Druzhba pipeline. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy agreed to inspections, but relief is delayed until April.
Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump demanded assistance reopening the Strait of Hormuz. Iran closed the route, pushing oil above $100 per barrel. France refused military escalation, prioritizing diplomacy. Trump threatened NATO consequences.
Internal friction persists regarding the Emissions Trading System. Ten nations oppose the carbon tax, calling it an economic burden. Brussels defends the mechanism for long-term investment certainty. Competitiveness against the US and China drives the urgency.