Brussels, December 14, 2025 : European Union leaders have agreed to indefinitely freeze Russian central bank assets, clearing a major legal and political hurdle to finance a large-scale loan for Ukraine’s reconstruction, officials confirmed on December 13–14, 2025.
The decision, taken ahead of the December 18 European Council meeting, resolves earlier concerns raised by Belgium, where a significant portion of the frozen assets is held. EU negotiators finalized safeguards to protect Belgium and other member states from potential legal action by Moscow, enabling the bloc to move forward with the plan.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen strongly backed the move, calling it a demonstration of Europe’s “long-term solidarity with Ukraine” as the country continues to face economic and infrastructure devastation from the ongoing war.
The frozen Russian assets — estimated to be worth hundreds of billions of euros — will not be confiscated outright but are expected to generate profits and interest that can be channeled into financial assistance and reconstruction loans for Kyiv.
Russia sharply condemned the decision, branding it “economic theft” and warning of legal retaliation against European institutions and companies. Kremlin officials reiterated that Moscow would challenge the asset freeze in international courts.
The move marks one of the EU’s most aggressive financial measures since the start of the conflict and underscores the bloc’s intent to maintain pressure on Russia while ensuring sustained support for Ukraine’s recovery.
