Euroclear depository in Belgium under tightened security amid rising threats

The Euroclear depository in Brussels, which holds the majority of Russian assets frozen by Western countries, has been placed under heightened security measures following growing concerns about potential threats.

The increased protection comes just ahead of a crucial European Union summit focusing on Ukraine and defence. The additional security measures specifically target Euroclear CEO Valérie Urbain and the members of the depository’s board, who are now being provided with enhanced security, Caliber.Az reports, citing foreign media.

The move follows an alarming incident in December 2024, when a drone was spotted over Brussels during an official visit by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.

Although the drone event did not cause harm, it raised concerns about the safety of key locations, including the Euroclear facility. Euroclear has confirmed that it is taking all necessary steps to protect its employees and premises, but declined to provide further details for security reasons. 

Euroclear is a leading international central securities depository headquartered in Brussels, Belgium. It provides settlement and related services for a wide range of securities, including stocks, bonds, and other financial instruments, across multiple markets globally. Euroclear is one of the key players in the financial infrastructure, ensuring the smooth and efficient processing of securities transactions. It plays a crucial role in the settlement of cross-border transactions and the safekeeping of assets, including the vast amount of frozen Russian assets held by Western countries as part of sanctions. With its high level of responsibility in global financial markets, Euroclear is closely monitored for security concerns, particularly in light of geopolitical tensions.

By Naila Huseynova