Belgian PM explains why EU summit did not move on frozen Russian assets

Belgian Prime Minister Bart De Wever has firmly opposed discussions on the idea of using frozen assets belonging to Russia's Central Bank.

Source: De Wever at a press conference following the first day of the EU summit, as reported by European Pravda

Details: The Belgian prime minister, who has consistently opposed the transfer of frozen Russian funds held in the EU to Ukraine, told journalists that his position remains unchanged.

He believes dialogue can begin only after the war ends, meaning the funds cannot be used now.

"In every war, even in World War II, they [immobilised assets] were never touched. But at the end of a conflict, there is always a peace deal. And part of this peace deal is the use of immobilised assets," he said.

De Wever said he is opposed to developments taking a different course now, despite some EU leaders seeking to put the issue back on the agenda.

"Are there people on this planet who maybe dream of doing it differently this time and operationalising those assets earlier for certain purposes? The answer to that question is yes, there are. Are they in this building [the European Council – ed.]? They are. Are they outside this building? Yes, they are. Do I want to talk about it? No, I don't. It's the best answer I can give you," he said.

The Belgian prime minister also noted that the current rules require unanimity for any action to be taken regarding the funds.

Background: No decisions on financing for Ukraine or on frozen Russian assets are expected at the summit due to a lack of agreement on these issues.

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