US EditionTusk Warns Europe Can Pay ‘in Money or Blood’ as EU Weighs Using Frozen Russian Assets
EU leaders consider a €90 billion loan backed by frozen Russian assets to sustain Ukraine’s defense amid legal and political challenges, Belgium demands risk guarantees.
- On Thursday at the European Council summit in Brussels, Poland's prime minister Donald Tusk warned leaders they faced a choice `money today or blood tomorrow` as the EU considers tapping frozen Russian central-bank cash to fund a 90 billion loan to Ukraine.
- Seen as Europe’s best hope to sustain Ukraine, supporters say the plan prevents Ukraine running out of money by the middle of next year and keeps funding for at least two years.
- Belgium insists on 'unlimited' guarantees as the Belgian government demands legal and financial guarantees from EU member states amid qualified majority approval risks.
- Prompted by concern, high-level political talks have started as Viktor Orban, Hungary's prime minister, vows to block proposals while António Costa urges settling the 90 billion package.
- Officials warned the Russian response is uncertain as Luc Frieden, Luxembourg's prime minister, said tapping frozen central-bank cash would be unprecedented and noted funds could be returned if Russia compensates Ukraine.
20 Articles
20 Articles
Moderate optimism for an agreement by the early hours of Friday - Donald Tusk's statement demonstrates the criticality of the negotiation - Belgium asks for new guarantees, how to overcome Hungary's veto
According to Polish Prime Minister Tusk, the EU summit agreed on the use of Russian assets for financial assistance to Ukraine. On the margins of the meeting of Heads of State and Government in Brussels, Tusk said that all participants were determined to find a solution.
Poland's head of government reports first progress in the dispute over the use of Russian assets. Merz offered Belgium to use Russian assets in Germany as well.
The pressure on the EU Council is growing. The reason is the decision about the Russian money. From the Leyen now threatens with an endless summit.
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