German Chancellor Friedrich Merz estimates the EU's chances of reaching an agreement on using frozen Russian assets to finance Ukraine's defense as "50-50." He said this on Tuesday, December 16, in an interview with ZDF television, as reported by UNN with reference to the Reuters agency.
Details
Merz noted that the EU must decide on a "reparation loan," as Ukraine will need financial support for at least two more years after the current European funding ends in the first quarter of 2026.
There are reservations across Europe, and I understand these reservations well. But... if we don't act now and make a decision that we could make to stop this offensive by the Russian army, then when will we do it?
EU leaders are expected to agree on the use of frozen Russian assets for a "reparation loan" to Ukraine at the summit on December 18-19.
Belgium, where frozen Russian assets are located, has strongly opposed their use for a "reparation loan" to Ukraine, fearing legal consequences for itself.
Recall
On December 16, a meeting was held in The Hague between the President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy, the Prime Minister of the Netherlands Dick Schoof, the President of Moldova Maia Sandu, and the Secretary General of the Council of Europe Alain Berset. The parties discussed the creation of an international compensation mechanism and an International Compensation Commission for Ukraine.
Minister of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine Andriy Sybiha signed the Convention on the establishment of the International Claims Settlement Commission for Ukraine in The Hague. This document was also signed by 34 states and the European Union.