Poland and Hungary have lost in court in the dispute over the new rule of law mechanism. Budapest in particular is now threatened with financial sanctions. However, it remains to be seen whether the EU Commission will initiate proceedings before the country's parliamentary elections. There has been sharp criticism from the European Parliament.
By Eric Bonse
Hungary is undisputedly China's most vocal friend in the EU. Relations go back further than with other Central European states. But now there is trouble over a planned offshoot of Fudan University in Budapest. The project could lead to an – at least temporary – break with the alliance with Beijing. Because elections are coming up in Hungary. And apparently, China is not popular in the Hungarian capital. The outcome of the German elections could also influence developments.
By Amelie Richter
