Zelensky meets Belgian PM at EU summit, seeks urgent financial support

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy acknowledged Belgium’s concerns over the potential use of frozen Russian assets to finance a loan for Ukraine but stressed that his country faces far greater risks without sustained financial support.

The comments came on December 18 during the European summit in Brussels, Caliber.Az reports, citing foreign media.

On the sidelines of the summit, Zelenskyy held a personal meeting with Belgian Prime Minister Bart De Wever. Speaking afterwards at a press conference, Zelenskyy said, “He told me everything he wanted to tell me, and so did I. Was it productive? We’ll see.”

Despite the candid discussion, Zelenskyy welcomed De Wever’s assurance that Belgium remains committed to finding a financial solution for Ukraine. “That’s a positive sign,” he added.

During the same press conference, Zelenskyy highlighted the practical consequences of any delay in funding. He warned that Ukraine would be forced to scale back its drone production without additional resources, noting that the country would be able to produce significantly fewer drones if new financing is not secured by spring.

Prime Minister De Wever emphasized the broader implications of the impasse, stating that failing to reach an agreement on Ukraine’s funding would be “the biggest possible disaster for Europe.”

Ukraine remains a top priority at the summit, with European leaders exploring ways to secure continued support for Kyiv over the next two years. The two primary options under discussion are using Russian assets that have been frozen within the European Union or arranging a joint EU-level loan.

Belgium has expressed opposition to utilizing the frozen Russian assets, citing legal and financial risks. A joint European loan, meanwhile, would require unanimity among member states—a consensus that has yet to be achieved.

By Vafa Guliyeva