EU Leaders Push for Consensus on Ukraine Aid Amidst Legal Concerns

EU leaders are under pressure to agree on financing Ukraine in light of Russia's war. The proposal includes using frozen Russian assets, but legal concerns arise. Belgium wants more guarantees, while the EU debates potential solutions to uphold European security and credibility against Russian aggression.

European Union leadership is facing a pivotal challenge as they convene on Thursday to reach a consensus on providing billions in aid to Ukraine. This meeting serves as a critical test of their unity, following U.S. President Donald Trump's characterization of the EU as weak.

The ongoing conflict with Russia is seen as a direct threat to European security, prompting the European Commission to propose leveraging frozen Russian central bank assets to finance a substantial loan for Kyiv. However, legal uncertainties have stirred concerns, particularly from Belgium, whose approval is vital for the plan to proceed.

Belgium's Prime Minister Bart De Wever expressed the need for assurances on risk-sharing, while a successful lawsuit from Russia could have dire financial repercussions. Despite these hurdles, European leaders are committed to finding a solution, underscoring the urgency with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy's participation in the summit.

(With inputs from agencies.)