BRUSSELS (ANP/BELGA) – De Wever has called for “strong legal guarantees” and “contractually established risk coverage” from fellow EU member states, and potentially from non-EU countries as well. According to sources, the assurances offered earlier this week by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen are deemed inadequate.
In a message sent to EU heads of government on Monday, Von der Leyen stated that EU members must collectively share any risks tied to the utilization of frozen Russian assets. Belgium is particularly concerned about potential reprisals from Russia since these assets are held within its borders.
Sources indicate that these are not novel guarantees from Von der Leyen. Furthermore, all EU member states must concur on robust legal assurances, as a commitment from Von der Leyen alone is insufficient.
The European Commission aims to leverage the frozen Russian assets to provide an interest-free loan of 141 billion euros to Ukraine. From the outset, De Wever has expressed apprehensions regarding the risks associated with this “innovative solution,” which the Commission promotes. This situation represents a legal grey area.
Countries like the Netherlands acknowledge the seriousness of Belgium’s concerns and objections, but they emphasize the urgent financial needs of Ukraine. Belgium concurs on the necessity of financial support but advocates for exploring alternative solutions.
At the request of EU heads of government, the Commission has explored other options, yet many countries still prefer to utilize the frozen Russian assets.
(November 20, 2025)
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