EU Finance Leaders Gather to Discuss Accessing €140 Billion in Frozen Russian Assets for Kyiv Support
EU finance ministers are meeting in Brussels this morning to address the union's economic agenda, featuring the pressing question of financial support to Ukraine.
Zelenskyy States Nation's Survival Depends on Partners
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated in a latest interview that Ukraine's existence relied on obtaining more funds from allies.
“I hope, with luck, we will get the necessary funding,” he told media outlets. Otherwise, “It will be necessary to seek an alternative, it’s a question of our survival. For this reason it is essential urgently. And I count on partners.”
European Authorities Advocates €140 Billion Compensation Funding
The European Commission continues to aim to convince member states – and Belgium, that continues to bloc the plan amid legal fears – to proceed with a €140 billion reparations loan based on frozen Russian assets.
EU chief Ursula von der Leyen emphasized today that it would be “the optimal method to sustain Kyiv's military and national finances.”
Resolution Postponed Until Year-End Summit
A final decision on the matter has been deferred until the European Council meeting in December, as the financial support required early next year.
Talks Coincide with Corruption Scandal in Kyiv
But the talks come at a difficult time for Kyiv, as Zelenskyy had to move to contain growing public outrage in Ukraine over a corruption scandal in the energy sector, dismissing two ministers allegedly involved in involvement in a large-scale corruption network.
Danish economic affairs minister Stephanie Lose was asked about her response to the scandal, and insisted that there was commitment to keep aiding the Ukrainian people.
“Of course, Ukraine will have to continuously work with reforms, strengthening all parts of their society [and] that also applies to fighting graft … but there shouldn’t be any doubt that Europe stands firmly behind Ukraine,” she stated.
Additional European Developments Under Watch
In other news, observers will be keeping an eye on the Netherlands where the legislature convenes to discuss potential ways ahead in the government formation process, the Italy-Albania consultations in the Italian capital giving us the latest chance to witness the brilliant leadership interplay, and a series of top-tier conferences throughout the continent, including Nato’s Mark Rutte’s trip to a military installation in Germany.
Lots for us to cover.
Today is November 13, November 13, 2025, and we bring you Europe Live.
Welcome.