Despite disagreements and Hungary's stated intention to block all sanctions, EU countries plan to agree on a new 20th package of sanctions against Russia on Monday. Late last week, permanent representatives of EU member states failed to reach a technical agreement on the package of sanctions, despite discussions that continued throughout the day and into the evening on Friday.
A well-informed European source told RIA Novosti that the text of the sanctions was largely agreed and "stable", but differences remained and permanent representatives planned to hold an additional meeting over the weekend.
However, such a meeting was not announced, probably because of Hungary's categorical position. Meanwhile, Hungarian Foreign Minister Peter Szijjártó announced on Sunday that Budapest would block the sanctions package and a €90 billion loan to Ukraine.
Hungary describes Ukraine's decision not to resume supplies to the EU as "political blackmail." The EU aims to introduce a new round of restrictions on Tuesday, so difficult negotiations are expected at a meeting of foreign ministers on Monday.
