Billions at stake with EU: Zelenskyy pushes Belgium amid debate to use Russian assets

European Union leaders are facing a high-stakes decision over nearly $200 billion in frozen Russian assets, as pressure mounts to secure long-term funding for Ukraine’s war effort. At a critical summit in Brussels, divisions have emerged over whether the EU can legally and safely use Russian central bank funds to support Kyiv. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has stepped up diplomatic efforts, holding direct talks with Belgian Prime Minister Bart De Wever, as Belgium holds the largest share of the frozen assets through the Euroclear clearing house.