On December 18, the EU leaders' summit in Brussels focused on the discussion of financial assistance to Ukraine. President Volodymyr Zelensky held several meetings, outlined his views, and reported on ongoing negotiations.
The summit’s core topic was the sources and mechanisms for providing aid to Ukraine. Various options are under consideration, including the use of frozen Russian assets. European leaders emphasized the need for political will to make a decision.
Meanwhile, Ukrainian Deputy Foreign Minister Serhiy Kyslytsia visited Beijing. Against the backdrop of the Brussels summit, the US approved a $11 billion arms sale package to Taiwan, seen as part of a broader geopolitical context.
Zelensky outlined the US position on talks with Russia: it is important to avoid any demands for Ukrainian troop withdrawal from Donbas and to ensure both financial and military support from partners. The President stated the withdrawal of troops is unacceptable and stressed that sanctions against Russia must continue, as Russia’s economy cannot sustain the war without support.
Security guarantees for Ukraine remain a major issue. Although joining NATO is currently unlikely, Ukraine insists on reliable guarantees to prevent a future offensive. Zelensky emphasized no constitutional changes are foreseen regarding the Euro-Atlantic course, even if such demands arise during negotiations.
In Brussels, conditions for financial assistance are debated amidst corruption concerns. There are proposals for a reparations loan backed by Russian assets or other financial guarantees, though no final mechanism has been agreed yet.
On the front, Ukrainian forces have carried out successful operations, especially in the Lyman direction, where coordinated army and intelligence actions have destroyed an enemy unit and improved positions. Strikes on military targets in Crimea and ongoing defense are also reported.
International support remains crucial, with emphasis on sanctions, obtaining military aid, and creating effective economic mechanisms for Ukraine’s support. The summit will continue, with discussions likely to extend to subsequent days.
