European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen stated that after presenting EU countries with financing options for Ukraine in 2026-2027, she is ready to present a legal text for a "reparations loan" that involves using frozen Russian assets and is estimated at 140 billion euros. She said this during a speech in the European Parliament on November 26, UNN writes.
Details
"In the absence of any real intention from Russia to engage in peace talks, it is clear that we need to support Ukraine in its defense. And that starts with providing the necessary financial means," von der Leyen said.
She noted that at the last EU summit, they "committed to covering Ukraine's financial needs for 2026 and 2027."
On this issue, we presented a document with options. It includes an option regarding frozen Russian assets. The next step is the European Commission's readiness to present a legal text.
She stressed: "To be very clear – I do not see a scenario in which European taxpayers will pay the bills themselves."
"And one more thing must also be clear – any decision on this matter must be made in accordance with the rules of responsible jurisdictions and with respect for European and international law," von der Leyen noted.
As Rikard Jozwiak, Europe editor for Radio Free Europe, clarified, "there should be about 11 legal acts. The idea is that member states will provide political support for the loan on December 18."
Recall
Earlier, von der Leyen presented three options for financing Ukraine in 2026-2027, the main one being a "reparations loan" of 140 billion euros using frozen Russian assets.