EU leaders tackle Ukraine aid amid debate over frozen Russian assets

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen met in Brussels with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz and Belgian Prime Minister Bart De Wever to discuss the ongoing situation in Ukraine and the potential use of frozen Russian assets.

Reporting the meeting on her social network X, von der Leyen emphasised that the participants agreed that “time is of the essence given the current geopolitical situation.”

She stressed that financial support for Ukraine “is of central importance for European security” and described the discussions as a “very constructive exchange of views” on the matter.

Von der Leyen also highlighted Belgium’s “special situation” regarding the use of frozen Russian assets, calling it “undeniable” and emphasising that it must be addressed in a way that ensures “all European states bear the same risk.” She added that discussions will continue with the goal of reaching a consensus at the European Council meeting scheduled for December 18.

Earlier, on December 3, von der Leyen announced two financing decisions for Ukraine for 2026–2027, one of which proposes using frozen Russian assets within the EU to provide Ukraine with a “reparations loan.”

Belgium had already rejected this proposal as categorically unacceptable prior to the announcement.

By Tamilla Hasanova