Spain’s FM Albares Calls on the EU to Review Its Voting System
Spain’s FM Jose Manuel Albares. X/@leylahamed.
February 24, 2026 Hour: 1:05 pm
Hungary and Slovakia vetoed the 20th package of sanctions against Russia.
On Tuesday, Spanish Foreign Minister Jose Manuel Albares called for “reflection” within the European Union (EU) on its voting system following Hungary and Slovakia’s veto of the twentieth package of sanctions against Russia.
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He explained that Hungary vetoed a special €90 million loan for Ukraine, which not only finances weapons, but also medical equipment and basic services, the lack of which deprives civilians of “minimum” living conditions.
Albares added that Hungary and Slovakia condition their support of the sanctions package on the restoration of Russian oil supplies through the Druzhba pipeline. He stated that economic sanctions against Russia are “essential” to force it to negotiate peace.
On Feb. 6, the European Commission (EC) proposed banning maritime services to Russian oil tankers, imposing further sanctions on energy companies and banks, and preventing the entry of sensitive products.
At the EU Foreign Affairs Council, Albares proposed solutions to the vetoes when unanimity is lacking, arguing that the majority will of member states cannot be “hijacked.” He proposed to adopt qualified majority voting in foreign policy to prevent countries from blocking “necessary” decisions.
Hungary not only rejects sanctions against Moscow but also threatens to block the €90 million loan, since €60 million will be allocated to military support and €30 million to macroeconomic support in 2026 and 2027.
The loan requires approval of three pillars: two by qualified majority and one by unanimity, which is essential for issuing EU debt. Hungary can exercise its veto on this last pillar and delay funding for Ukraine.
teleSUR: JP
Source: EFE
