EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen emphasized before the European Parliament in Strasbourg that Europe must take responsibility for its own security by supporting Ukraine’s defense against Russia. She urged that the upcoming EU summit, starting tomorrow, make a decisive decision regarding the financing of Ukraine.

Discussions within the EU have been ongoing for months about using frozen Russian state assets to support Ukraine. Concerns primarily come from Belgium, where the funds are held, due to fears of financial and legal retaliation from Moscow. Recently, EU ambassadors agreed to freeze the Russian central bank assets long-term, changing from the previous six-month sanctions extension.

Manfred Weber, chairman of the conservative European People’s Party (EPP), described failure to agree at the summit as a historic missed opportunity. The issue remains crucial as Europe seeks to ensure its security and uphold commitments to Ukraine.