www.gandul.ro/international/fico-scandal-merz-buge

Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico accused German Chancellor Friedrich Merz of "blackmail" over EU budget conditions tied to Ukraine funding. Merz stated that unanimous support from EU member states is necessary for a multi-billion euro loan to Ukraine, which Fico rejected as classic blackmail. Fico criticized EU policies on Ukraine, opposing military aid and maintaining relations with Russia. Meanwhile, Hungarian Prime Minister Péter Magyar expressed concerns about linking the EU budget to Ukraine funding, emphasizing Hungary's significant contributions and the need for cohesion funds. The EU is currently negotiating its next seven-year budget, set to begin in 2028.