Hungary blocks talks on two points regarding Ukraine's EU accession

Hungary, during technical consultations, blocked the start of negotiations on two points regarding Ukraine's accession to the EU, which concern economic and social issues.

This was reported by the British newspaper Financial Times (FT), citing sources.

According to the newspaper, Budapest postponed the opening of the second and third clusters, which concern integration into the single market and the expansion of economic and social policy. It is noted that in the current situation, EU officials believe that "political pressure" on Hungary will be required to maintain its support.

In addition, Budapest opposes the accelerated admission of Ukraine into the community. According to an unnamed representative of Hungary, Kyiv "should not receive more favorable treatment" than the Western Balkan candidates, who have been trying for years to meet the EU's requirements.

The EU accession negotiation process is divided into 33 sections (chapters), which in turn are unevenly grouped into six clusters. The start of negotiations does not set any time frames and does not provide guarantees of admission to the EU.

Source: TASS