EU Offers Frozen Funds to Hungary in Exchange for Support on Ukraine

The European Union is considering unlocking billions of euros in frozen funds for Hungary as it seeks Budapest's approval for aid to Ukraine, including starting membership talks. Hungary, which has closer ties with Russia than other EU states, is seen as a potential opponent to opening accession talks with Kyiv. The EU's decision on unlocking funds for Hungary and increasing contributions to aid Ukraine requires unanimity among member states. Hungary's economic needs and the condition of implementing judicial independence reforms will play a role in the potential deal.