EU to Fund Ukraine Amidst Belgian Objections Over Russian Assets

The European Union is poised to approve a two-year financial support package for Ukraine, EU Council chief Antonio Costa announced, despite objections from Belgium regarding the use of immobilized Russian assets. President Volodymyr Zelenskiy attended the Brussels summit, advocating for the quick allocation of these assets to support Ukraine.

Belgian Prime Minister Bart De Wever expressed his country's concerns over the financial risks associated with the plan, insisting that EU countries share any potential legal costs should Russia pursue actions against the sanctioned assets. He warned that, without these guarantees, Belgium would resist the decision at both national and EU levels.

Costa, together with Zelenskiy, anticipates that a political agreement will be reached, with specifics to be determined subsequently. The EU plans to incorporate the funds for military support and defense enhancement for Ukraine, underscoring the urgency of the situation as Zelenskiy emphasized the necessity of these measures for saving lives and strengthening defense.