Hungary announced it will block the EU's 20th package of sanctions against Russia after an interruption in Russian oil deliveries through the Druzhba pipeline, RTP, Expresso and Diário de Notícias report. Hungarian Foreign Minister Peter Szijjarto said Hungary will not allow the adoption of decisions important for Ukraine while oil supplies remain cut, and a Foreign Ministers' Council meeting is scheduled to vote. The move could slow EU coordination on Russia policy; those following EU foreign affairs should watch for developments ahead of the council meeting.
Hungary to block new EU sanctions package
Sunday, 22 February 2026AI summary
Context & Explainers
Peter Szijjarto is Hungary's Foreign Minister, and a senior member of the Fidesz party; he has served as Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade since 2014. On 22 February he announced Hungary would block the EU's 20th package of sanctions against Russia because of interruptions to Druzhba pipeline oil deliveries.
The Foreign Ministers' Council refers to the Council of the European Union when foreign ministers meet (the Foreign Affairs Council) to coordinate EU foreign policy and approve measures like sanctions. Decisions on sanctions under the EU's Common Foreign and Security Policy normally require unanimity, so any single member state can block adoption.