Merz: Hungary and Slovakia could lose EU funds over pro-Russia stance

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has announced a tougher stance against Hungary and Slovakia over their continued obstruction of EU sanctions targeting Russia, German TV channel NTV reported. Actions against them can include withdrawal of EU funds from the countries.

Amid the ongoing Russo-Ukrainian war, Hungarian PM Viktor Orbán has opposed military aid to Ukraine since Russia started its full-scale invasion in 2022, pushing for peace talks that would freeze the war and solidify Moscow’s control of occupied territories. He and another pro-Russian leader within the EU, Slovak PM Robert Fico, regularly obstruct the bloc’s aid for Ukraine and sanctions against Russia.

Speaking at the WDR-Europaforum on 26 May, Merz said, referring to the restraining role of both states in the EU sanctions against Russia:

“We will not be able to avoid a conflict with Hungary and Slovakia if this course continues.”

He emphasized that both governments represent only a “small minority” among the 27 EU member states, yet have used their veto powers to block or weaken sanctions.

“We cannot allow the decisions of the entire European Union to depend on a small minority,” Merz stated.

According to the German chancellor, the EU has a range of instruments it can apply to increase pressure on the pro-Russian governments of Slovakia and Hungary. Among them are infringement proceedings for violations of rule-of-law obligations and the possible suspension of EU funding for Budapest and Bratislava.

“But there is always the option of withdrawing European funds from them,” Merz said, referencing legal mechanisms available under EU treaties. While he added that he does not seek conflict, he made it clear: “If it is necessary, then we will deal with them.”

Merz had spoken directly with Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán the previous week.