Belgium Calls on Europe to Abandon Frozen Russian Assets Plan to Support Ukraine

Belgium has called on the European Union to abandon its plan to use frozen Russian assets as financial support for Ukraine. The Belgian Foreign Minister described this approach as “fundamentally wrong,” emphasizing serious legal and ethical concerns related to the proposal.

Key Concerns Raised by Belgium

• Potential violation of property rights and international agreements by repurposing state assets.
• Possible long-term negative impacts on international law and diplomatic relations.
• The need for a cautious approach before proceeding, respecting established legal frameworks.

Opposing Views Within the EU

The EU proposed using billions of euros in frozen Russian assets held across European financial institutions to aid Ukraine, aiming to accelerate reconstruction and humanitarian efforts. However, this plan has sparked a division among member states:

1. Some members support using the seized assets as a creative financial solution for Ukraine’s recovery and defense.
2. Others, like Belgium, urge caution, advocating for alternative legal and diplomatic methods to support Ukraine.

Belgium’s Recommended Approach

The Belgian Foreign Minister stressed the importance of unity among EU members and upholding international law to maintain the EU’s credibility and leadership on the global stage. Belgium calls for:

• Exploring alternative avenues of support that do not involve asset seizure.
• Adhering to international legal principles to avoid future diplomatic conflicts.
• Ensuring any measures taken have thorough legal consideration.

The debate on this issue is ongoing as EU leaders prepare for upcoming meetings to finalize their strategy. Belgium’s stance represents a significant challenge to the current EU proposal aimed at addressing the Ukraine crisis through economic means.

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