Reported from the source

Quick summary: A definitive break looms between Kyiv and Budapest as Viktor Orbán threatens to block €90 billion in EU aid, prompting Volodymyr Zelenskyy to label him an “ally of Russia.” Meanwhile, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz is in Norway for strategic talks on NATO, space, and energy. Domestically, Germany is releasing parts of its strategic oil reserve and implementing a daily price cap at petrol stations.

A definitive break is imminent between Kyiv and Budapest. Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán may block the release of €90 billion in EU aid next week at the European Council. In an exclusive interview with POLITICO, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy referred to Orbán as an “ally of Russia.” Gordon Repinski reports on the charged atmosphere in the presidential palace and, together with Rixa Fürsen, analyzes Zelenskyy’s “Plan B” to circumvent the Hungarian veto. Meanwhile, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz is at the Arctic Circle, accompanied by Defense Minister Boris Pistorius. In Norway, discussions extend beyond mere diplomatic courtesy, covering NATO exercises, a visit to a spaceport, a submarine deal with Canada, and European independence in satellite technology. Hans von der Burchard assesses whether Norway, as a crucial energy supplier, could serve as “life insurance” for Germany’s economic transition, especially at this time. Domestically, Germany is releasing parts of its strategic oil reserve and introducing a daily price cap at petrol stations. In a 200-second interview, Justice and Consumer Protection Minister Stefanie Hubig (SPD) explains the intended impact of the price cap and whether German motorists can expect a “real price brake” if the crisis in the Middle East persists.

Source: www.politico.eu