France and Germany sceptical about plan to override Hungary's veto on over €6bn in aid to Ukraine – Bloomberg

France and Germany have not backed a proposal aimed at overriding Hungary's veto that blocks the allocation of over EUR6 billion in aid to Ukraine. Source: Bloomberg, as reported by European Pravda Details: The European External Action Service proposed allowing EU member states to make voluntary contributions to the European Peace Facility (EPF).

This would enable funds for assistance to be allocated solely at the discretion of individual countries without requiring unanimous support from all EU member states.

However, Bloomberg sources noted that some member states, including France and Germany, expressed concern about setting a precedent that could jeopardise the EPF's future as a foreign policy tool.

The news agency also notes that in some countries, voluntary contributions may require the approval of national parliaments, adding another layer of complexity.

Bloomberg sources also say it is unclear how much support the proposed plan will receive in the EU.

Background: 

• In March, the Council of the European Union agreed to establish a fund to support Ukraine through the European Peace Facility, intended for member states to compensate for military supplies sent to Ukraine.
• Hungary is reportedly blocking the allocation of billions of euros from the European Peace Facility for military aid to Ukraine.
• This is despite Budapest receiving assurances that Hungary's contributions to the EPF will not be used for any military assistance to Ukraine.
• As early as 30 August, Josep Borrell, EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, vowed to find a solution to circumvent the blocking of the allocation of over EUR6 billion from the EPF.

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