EU defense chiefs are urging Belgium to allow the use of frozen assets of the Russian central bank to purchase urgently needed weapons for Ukraine, warning that Kiev could run out of ammunition by spring, Belga news agency reported, quoted by BTA.
Swedish Defense Minister Poul Jönsson said that Ukraine needs the financial strength to continue fighting, while his Dutch counterpart Ruben Brekelmans stressed that using the assets would show Moscow that it cannot outlive European support. Germany also supports the initiative, citing the need for Ukraine to expand its air defenses and increase its ammunition stocks.
Some 185 billion euros of frozen Russian funds are held in the Belgian clearing house "Euroclear", making Brussels a key factor in the decision. However, Belgium remains opposed. Prime Minister Bart de Wever argues that using the assets could harm peace talks, and the CEO of "Euroclear" has even threatened to sue the EU. Concerns have also increased after the European Central Bank refused to financially support the plan.
The EU's foreign policy chief Kaia Kallas said Belgium should change its position. According to Kallas, a "reparations loan", secured by frozen Russian funds, is the most realistic solution and would strengthen Europe's position in peace talks. She stressed that such a step would send a "strong signal" to Washington that Europe is taking decisive action to end the war.
Kallas assured that other member states were ready to share all legal risks with Belgium.
US special envoy Steve Witkoff left for Moscow today for a new round of talks, and European officials fear that Ukraine could be pressured into concessions. This puts Belgium under increased pressure ahead of a key EU summit on December 19.