Ukraine and Russia have dominated today’s talks, with Belgium playing hardball on the EU’s plan to use frozen Russian assets for a €140 billion loan for Ukraine.
- Belgium, which holds most of the assets, fears legal and financial retaliation from Moscow and wants others to share the risk.
- After drawn-out and complex talks, the country’s leader, Bart De Wever, agreed to wording that delays a decision.
- Earlier, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy told leaders that Kyiv would prioritize domestic and European industry when spending money from the loan — but insisted on being able to buy American if needed.
- Leaders finished their debate on climate and competitiveness without any major blow-ups.