**EU Explores Loopholes to Bypass Hungary’s Russia Sanctions Veto**
The European Union is considering a potential way to bypass Hungary’s veto on extending sanctions against Russia. According to Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, the EU is exploring options to leave the current sanctions in place without a formal extension.
Hungary, seen as one of the most Moscow-friendly EU members, has repeatedly threatened to derail the process while extracting exemptions from listings. The European bloc has adopted 16 packages of sanctions on Russia since the full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022. To extend these sanctions, every six months, requires a unanimous approval from all 27 member states.
One option being considered is leaving the existing decision on sanctions in place without needing an extension. This would be an unprecedented move and could open the door to legal challenges. Another possibility is that the upcoming 17th sanctions package would not be adopted but instead “horse-traded” with Hungary for the extension.
These options come as the EU has been trying to navigate the complex web of relationships between its member states, particularly when it comes to Russia’s war in Ukraine. Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban has consistently obstructed aid to Kyiv and sanctions against Russia, claiming that the US push towards peace means the EU must also abandon its military support for Kyiv and reopen dialogue with Moscow.
**Background on EU Sanctions**
The EU sanctions consist of two documents: a decision and a regulation. While a regulation requires an extension by all 27 members every six months, a decision remains in force until it is repealed by a qualified majority. This distinction could provide the EU with some flexibility in bypassing Hungary’s veto.
**Other Options on the Table**
The EU could also consider other options to circumvent Hungary’s veto. These include letting the sanctions lapse but raising tariffs on Russia, which does not require unanimity. Alternatively, the bloc could adopt mirroring sanctions on a national level.
**EU-Russia Relations and US Involvement**
The situation is further complicated by the US administration’s approach to Russia-Ukraine relations. President Donald Trump has suggested that lifting EU sanctions would be part of an eventual peace settlement. However, some US officials have expressed concerns over this direction, urging Trump to resist territorial concessions to Moscow.
The complex web of relationships between the EU, US, and Russia continues to evolve. As tensions remain high in Ukraine, the EU’s ability to navigate these dynamics will be crucial in determining its response to Russia’s actions.