Post by : Badri Ariffin

On Thursday, European Union leaders assembled in Brussels for a pivotal summit aimed at finalizing a substantial financial aid package to assist Ukraine with its military and economic demands for the next two years. According to the International Monetary Fund (IMF), Ukraine requires approximately 137 billion euros ($160 billion) in this timeframe due to the ongoing conflict with Russia.

While other matters like migration, trade, and EU expansion will also be on the agenda, the urgency to support Ukraine is paramount. European leaders unanimously agree that timely and dependable funding is critical for Ukraine’s defense and recovery of its damaged infrastructure.

Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, emphasized the need for immediate action. She urged lawmakers to quickly determine how best to assist Ukraine, declaring that the situation is dire and cannot afford delays.

António Costa, President of the European Council and meeting leader, affirmed his commitment to prolong discussions until a consensus is achieved, even if it takes several days.

Discussion on Utilizing Frozen Russian Assets

A significant proposal under consideration is to allocate billions in frozen Russian assets currently held in Europe. These funds were seized following Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022. Proponents argue that it's only fair for Russia's frozen resources to be utilized for the recovery of the nation it assaulted.

Nonetheless, this approach carries risks and lacks precedent. The European Central Bank has cautioned that utilizing frozen assets from another country could undermine trust in the euro. Nations with considerable investments in Europe may express concerns over the security of their own assets.

Additionally, some EU member states fear potential repercussions from Russia. Belgium, home to the majority of the frozen assets in the Euroclear clearinghouse, is firmly against this proposal, advocating instead for financial borrowing from global markets.

Compounding the challenges, the Russian Central Bank has initiated legal proceedings against Euroclear in a Moscow court.

Internal EU Opposition and Support

Hungary and Slovakia also express reservations regarding the plan. They oppose von der Leyen's concept of a “reparations loan”—a long-term loan of about 90 billion euros, with repayment contingent upon the conclusion of the war and Russia’s compensation to Ukraine for damages.

Ukraine's estimated total damages from almost four years of war exceed 600 billion euros ($700 billion).

Nations including the U.K., Canada, and Norway are predicted to offer extra support to meet the remaining financial requirements.

However, certain EU states—Bulgaria, Italy, and Malta—remain uncertain. Diplomatic efforts have been ongoing for weeks to reconcile these disagreements.

If substantial opposition surfaces, the plan could be hindered. Moreover, there’s minimal backing for a fallback strategy that involves raising capital through international markets.

A Pivotal Moment for Ukraine and the EU

This summit represents a critical juncture. Should the leaders reach an agreement, Ukraine will obtain the long-term financial stability necessary for its resistance against Russia. Conversely, failure to secure this deal could lead to a significant funding shortfall at a vital moment in the conflict.

For Europe, this decision carries symbolic weight, revealing the EU's readiness to embrace bold and unprecedented measures to support a nation standing up for its sovereignty and core European values.

#Global News #World News