EU faces mounting tensions as talks stall over Ukraine funding plan

09:50

By: Dakir Madiha

EU faces mounting tensions as talks stall over Ukraine funding plan

The European Union is struggling to finalize a long-term funding deal for Ukraine, with disagreements among member states threatening to delay a crucial financial package ahead of a decisive summit in Brussels later this week.

EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas warned that discussions over the multi‑year plan are becoming “increasingly difficult,” though she expressed confidence that leaders would reach an agreement before the summit concludes. The proposal under debate aims to channel tens of billions of euros to support Ukraine’s defense and reconstruction efforts while linking future repayments to Russian war reparations.

Belgium raises financial and legal concerns

At the center of the impasse is Belgium, whose government has voiced objections to the European Commission’s proposal that relies on frozen Russian assets. Prime Minister Bart De Wever argues that Brussels could face significant legal and financial exposure if Russia brings legal challenges against the use of these funds.

Belgium is home to Euroclear, the financial institution where much of the frozen Russian central bank’s assets are held. De Wever insists that EU partners must share any potential liabilities arising from the scheme. His position has disrupted efforts to present a unified front, with some governments calling for wider guarantees to mitigate risk.

Slovakia joins the opposition

Slovakia’s Prime Minister Robert Fico has also resisted the plan, refusing to endorse any funding that contributes to military spending for Kyiv. His stance echoes domestic opposition to prolonged involvement in the conflict, further complicating consensus within the bloc.

Leaders prepare for a decisive summit

European Council President António Costa has described the upcoming December summit as critical for maintaining the EU’s credibility in supporting Ukraine. The gathering follows the bloc’s decision to permanently freeze Russian assets, removing the need for regular renewals previously vulnerable to vetoes.

Under the proposed structure, Ukraine would only begin repayment once Russia compensates for the destruction caused by its invasion. EU officials argue that the plan represents both a financial lifeline for Kyiv and a moral statement of Europe’s commitment to accountability and solidarity.

As the summit approaches, diplomats acknowledge that failure to secure agreement could signal internal fractures just when the bloc seeks to project unity on the international stage.