Germany's Merz supports reparations loan for Ukraine as he sees no better option

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has said he supports using frozen Russian assets to fund Ukraine because he sees no better alternative.

Source: Merz speaking to the press upon his arrival for an EU summit in Brussels on 18 December, as reported by European Pravda

Details: Merz said the European Union had to resolve two main issues: continued support for Ukraine, and its deal with the South American trade bloc Mercosur.

On the subject of frozen Russian assets, Merz said he wants them to be used to help Ukraine.

Quote: "I don't see a better option. I have the impression we can reach a conclusion. I understand the concerns of some member states, especially the Belgian government. But I hope we can resolve these issues together and move forward on a path that sends Russia a signal of the EU's strength and determination."

More details: Merz added that the way Kremlin leader Vladimir Putin has reacted shows how necessary this is.

Background:

• On Thursday it was reported that diplomats from EU member states had reached a tentative agreement on the use of frozen Russian assets to provide Ukraine with a "reparations loan" in 2026-2027, but the final decision will be taken by EU leaders at the European Council meeting.
• Politico reported earlier that at the latest ambassador-level EU talks, Belgium said there had been no progress towards a joint decision on using Russian assets to fund Ukraine.

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