The EU states have found a way to block Russian state bank funds for the longer term. This improves the chances of the Ukraine reparation loan. An agreement at the summit here would be a prerequisite for the EU to be taken seriously in the US-led peace negotiations.
By Stephan Israel, János Allenbach-Ammann and Wilhelmine Stenglin
With the help of an emergency clause, a large majority of EU states have decided to place a long-term block on Russian state bank funds. This increases the likelihood of the Ukraine reparation loan, which could strengthen the EU’s role in the peace negotiations.
By Stephan Israel, János Allenbach-Ammann and Wilhelmine Stenglin
The Chinese telecom equipment supplier ZTE could settle a long-standing corruption case in the USA out of court. The company is to pay a fine of over one billion US dollars to avoid the threat of sanctions.
By Julia Fiedler
The EU Commission has presented its legislative proposals for financing Ukraine. In them, it has complemented its preferred option of a reparations loan using frozen Russian assets with additional guarantees and a new legal basis. However, Belgium remains opposed.
By János Allenbach-Ammann and Stephan Israel
For the first time, the Brussels-based authority has set a timeframe for phasing out Russian nuclear fuels. Dependence is to be ended in the early 2030s at the latest, while a ban on oil and gas imports is planned to take effect from as early as 2028.
By Manuel Berkel
EU foreign ministers decided on Thursday to impose sanctions against Abdelrahim Hamdan Dagalo, the deputy commander of the Sudanese RSF militia. Those responsible for atrocities must not go unpunished, said EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs, Kaja Kallas.
By Stephan Israel
Kaja Kallas commented calmly on the reports about an alleged US-Russian peace plan for Ukraine. This could not work as long as Ukraine and Europe were not involved. The EU would continue to pursue its own plan.
By Viktor Funk, Stephan Israel and Denis Trubetskoy
The EU is discussing new strategies against the Russian shadow fleet. Poland proposes targeting the entire ecosystem, including ports, insurers and refineries. A discussion paper by Kaja Kallas is also under consideration in the Foreign Affairs Council.
By Stephan Israel
The Commission President has presented three options on meeting Ukraine’s financial requirements. In addition to bilateral grants, these could include joint debt instruments. The Commission is accommodating Belgian interests in its preferred option of reparation loans using frozen funds from the Russian central bank.
By Stephan Israel
France is campaigning for a European coalition against the Russian shadow fleet. Germany in particular should take stronger action against suspicious ships. The topic could soon be on the agenda of the National Security Council.
By Lisa-Martina Klein
