The European Union is preparing to adopt a legal draft that would allow the use of frozen Russian state assets to provide financial assistance to Ukraine. The initiative could provide up to 140 billion euros in loans to help Kiev finance its budget over the next two to three years.
Belgium was initially cautious, fearing that a court could force it to return the money. But Brussels is now ready not to block the plan.
The EU insists this is not a seizure of assets, since Russia could theoretically recover the assets if it pays Ukraine compensation.
The move is crucial to supporting Ukraine, especially given the United States' unreliable position.
