Hungary and Slovakia have vetoed a proposal to impose EU sanctions on Georgian officials, several diplomats and officials confirmed to Euronews.
The sanctions, proposed by EU High Representative Kaja Kallas, were aimed at Georgian state officials involved in repressing demonstrations supporting European integration. This marked Kallas’s first proposal since assuming office on December 1.
After the vetoes, Kallas remarked, “It’s my first Hungarian veto but I can guarantee it’s not the last,” acknowledging the blockage and confirming that unanimity was not reached among EU member states. “With sanctions, we need 27 on board. So therefore we are, unfortunately, not there. But I think the (suspension) of the visa-free regime is the first step and is also symbolic.”
Meanwhile, a separate proposal to suspend visa-free travel for Georgian holders of diplomatic and service passports will proceed. This measure, which requires only a qualified majority, will now be developed by the European Commission.
Before the meeting, Hungary, a close ally of Georgia’s ruling Georgian Dream party, had signaled its intention to block any restrictive actions. “The European Union has set a world record for political hypocrisy regarding Georgia,” Hungary’s Foreign Minister Péter Szijjártó said, describing the Tbilisi government as “peace-oriented” and “patriotic.”
Slovakia also expressed disapproval, though more discreetly. “No hasty steps will help,” Slovakia’s Foreign Minister Juraj Blanár said. “It is necessary to approach Georgia with respect and openness and to leave the corridors open for this communication, both in terms of diplomacy and other related matters.”
