The decision emerged after a prolonged Brussels summit, where Orbán denied approval of the support meant for the Ukrainian government. Consequently, the EU postponed their budget discussions to January, acknowledging Orbán's recalcitrance after a seven-hour debate.

Estonian Prime Minister Kaja Kallas publicly conveyed Orbán's stance, and Orbán himself declared his veto on social media.

This action by Hungary, considered Russia's ally in the EU, frustrated Ukraine's proponents shortly after the EU had consented to start Ukraine's membership negotiations—a decision supported by 26 nations, albeit without Hungary.

Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte and Kallas expressed confidence in the other EU members' support and the continuation of Ukraine's accession process despite Hungary's position.

Earlier, Orbán abstained from blocking Ukraine's initiation of EU membership talks a consensus reached in his absence. However, the financial aid issue could not bypass Orbán's blockade, recognizing that other countries, including the UK, had also previously exercised vetoes.

Defiant, Orbán has not ruled out impeding Ukraine's EU entry in the future. Belgian Prime Minister Alexander De Croo anticipates returning in January with Orbán's agreement, emphasizing the importance of supporting Ukraine at a challenging time.

Orbán has taken the stance that Ukraine shouldn't receive substantial EU funds since it's not a member of the bloc. However, other EU leaders have offered to aid Ukraine through non-EU budgetary means if Hungary's veto stands.

This dispute coincides with a crucial juncture for Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskiy as the country struggles against Russian forces, and U.S. President Joe Biden faces challenges passing a $60 billion support package for Ukraine through Congress.

Meanwhile, EU leaders will shift their focus to other issues such as tensions in Gaza, imposing sanctions on both Hamas leaders and Israeli settlers involved in conflict.