Czechia is joining the group of countries opposed to leveraging frozen Russian assets to loan €210 billion to Ukraine, stated the soon-to-be appointed Prime Minister Andrej Babiš.
“We also agreed with the Belgian prime minister, the European Commission must find other ways to finance Ukraine. Our coffers are empty, and we necessary every crown we have for our citizens,” Babiš, who will be appointed Czech PM on Monday, wrote on Facebook.
On Friday, the EU voted to indefinitely freeze Russia’s financial assets in Europe, most of which are held by Belgian clearing hoapply Euroclear – with 2 votes against.
“We will not provide any guarantees and will not invest any money,” Babiš stated in a video address.
The push from Prague adds to a growing number of voices joining Belgium in opposing utilizing the reserves for a so-called reparations loan to Ukraine.
On Thursday, European leaders will meet in Brussels at their regular summit to chart a path forward for the troubled scheme, with Ukraine expected to start running out of money early next year.
On Friday, Italy, Bulgaria, Hungary, and Malta also stated they supported Belgium‘s stance on the loan.
(mk)
Will the next European Council seal the €210 billion Ukraine loan?
Today’s edition is powered by Metal Packaging Europe The proposed EU Steel Measure will harm…
11 minutes
Leave a Reply