Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul (CDU) has strongly advocated for the rapid abolition of the unanimity principle within the European Union. Speaking to the Funke media group’s Saturday editions, the CDU politician stated that for the EU to become an effective international actor and truly mature, the unanimity requirement in foreign and security policy must be scrapped before the end of the current legislative term. He advocates for a system of qualified majority voting within the European Union, pointing to the experiences gained in recent weeks-specifically related to aid for Ukraine and sanctions against Russia-as supporting this view.
Wadephul emphasized that as the world’s largest unified economic area, the EU must translate its economic strength into political power, arguing that it can no longer afford to be paralyzed by individual member states. The German minister also addressed the recurring blocking actions by Hungary, led by Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, which have obstructed an EU loan package totaling 90 billion. Looking ahead to the Hungarian parliamentary elections scheduled for April 12th, Wadephul expressed confidence that the Hungarian people will democratically determine the leadership they prefer, adding, “And we must and will cooperate with every Hungarian government”.
In other news, Wadephul reaffirmed Germany’s commitment to providing comprehensive aid to Ukraine. The foreign minister stated that Germany has solidified its role as Ukraine’s most important supporter, a point reiterated by President Zelenskyy during a recent visit from the German minister. Wadephul confirmed that he assured Zelenskyy that Germany remains committed to being the strongest supporter.
