EU officials considering reform to bypass Hungary’s blockade on Ukraine defense funds

The European Union is considering a reform of the European Peace Facility (EPF) to address ongoing tensions caused by Hungary's veto on military aid to Ukraine, which has created a backlog of €6.5 billion ($7 billion). The proposed reform would make financial contributions voluntary, bypassing Hungary’s opposition to providing further military support.

Hungary, viewed as the most Russia-aligned EU member, has repeatedly blocked aid, claiming it only serves to "prolong" and "escalate" the war. Slovakia has also echoed these sentiments since the election of Ukraine-skeptic Prime Minister Robert Fico. Hungarian Foreign Minister Peter Szijjarto further escalated the standoff, stating on July 23 that aid will remain blocked unless Ukraine resolves issues regarding the transit of Russian Lukoil oil.

The reform, still in the early planning stages, aims to reduce friction by allowing individual countries to opt out of funding the EPF if they oppose its objectives. While this adjustment may ease tensions, it risks undermining the EU’s unity in confronting Russia and could create budgetary challenges as other countries would need to compensate for any shortfall in contributions.

Although some EU leaders remain optimistic that Hungary might eventually lift its veto, the standoff reveals deeper divisions between Hungary’s foreign policy approach and the broader consensus among EU members. The reform’s success will largely depend on whether the EU can maintain a coordinated stance while accommodating dissenting member states.

Russians attacks Zaporizhzia at night, injuring 3 people

During the night of October 11-12, Zaporizhzhia came under Russian attack, resulting in injuries to three people and extensive damage to homes and industrial areas. Ivan Fedorov, the head of Zaporizhzhia Oblast Military Administration, confirmed the incident, noting that the strikes had hit residential buildings and business premises.

According to early reports, the injured included two women, aged 55 and 22, as well as an 11-year-old girl. Medical teams promptly provided the necessary treatment to the victims. The State Emergency Service later clarified that one house had been completely destroyed during the attack, and rescue operations were still ongoing to ensure no one was left under the rubble.

Firefighters were able to contain a fire that had spread across 15 square meters, affecting storage facilities and workshops. Nearby homes also sustained damage, with shattered windows and damaged facades reported. Rescue workers continued their efforts throughout the morning, monitoring the situation closely and updating casualty figures as needed.

Several thousand North Korean soldiers training in Russia, potential deployment to Ukraine possible

The Institute for the Study of War (ISW) reports that North Korean troops are already engaged in Ukraine, with thousands more undergoing training in Russia. South Korean and Ukrainian officials indicate these forces could be deployed to the front lines or border regions by late 2024.

North Korean officers are said to be observing operations in occupied Donetsk, where a Ukrainian missile strike recently killed several. While the scale of their involvement is unclear, ISW suggests this deployment could bolster Russia’s manpower and extend its offensive efforts.