Zelenskyy Appeals for Support at EU Summit Amid Stalled US Talks, Pushes for €140bn Russian Asset Loan
In a high-stakes diplomatic move, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is attending a critical one-day European Council summit in Brussels on October 23, 2025. The urgent visit comes directly after a challenging face-to-face meeting with US President Donald Trump, placing immense focus on Europe’s role as Ukraine’s primary backer as the war with Russia grinds on.
The summit, convening all 27 EU leaders, has a broad agenda covering migration, competitiveness, and housing. However, Ukraine’s fight for survival is the dominant theme, with Zelenskyy aiming to transform political solidarity into concrete military, financial, and diplomatic commitments.
Ukraine’s Demands: No Concessions and Unlocked Assets
President Zelenskyy entered the summit with a clear and firm message: Ukraine will accept no territorial concessions in any future peace negotiations. His appeal to European leaders emphasized that delays in leveraging frozen Russian assets are directly hindering Ukraine’s defense capabilities and Europe’s own strategic security.
A central point of discussion is a bold EU proposal to launch a €140 billion reparation loan for Ukraine. This massive financial package would be backed by the billions in Russian state assets immobilized in EU jurisdictions. However, the plan faces hurdles. Belgian Prime Minister Alexander De Croo has voiced strong conditions, citing concerns over financial risk and potential retaliation from Moscow, highlighting that full EU unity is yet to be achieved.
A Pivotal Moment for European Solidarity
For Zelenskyy, this summit is about more than just aid; it’s about ensuring Ukraine remains a top-tier priority on the European agenda. Following his reportedly difficult talks with President Trump, the Brussels meeting serves as a crucial platform to reinforce alliance bonds and secure reliable support.
The atmosphere reflects a significant shift in Europe’s role. The EU is no longer seen just as a supporter but increasingly as a co-actor in Ukraine’s defense and future reconstruction. Zelenskyy’s presence and his unwavering stance signal that Kyiv expects decisive action, not just declarations of solidarity.
A Broader Test of European Resolve
Beyond the immediate Ukraine crisis, the summit is a litmus test for Europe’s broader strategic ambitions. Leaders are grappling with how to:
Ramp up the bloc’s defense capabilities by 2030.
Boost competitiveness while advancing climate goals.
Address internal pressures like migration and housing affordability.
For Zelenskyy, successfully aligning Ukraine’s needs with this larger European project is key to strengthening his country’s long-term security outlook.
Key Outcomes to Watch
The success of the summit will be measured by several critical factors:
The €140 Billion Loan: Will EU leaders overcome reservations and secure the necessary backing for the landmark loan package?
Frozen Assets Policy: How will Zelenskyy’s direct appeal influence the EU’s final decision on using Russian assets for Ukraine’s benefit?
Defense Roadmap: Can the summit produce a clear, actionable plan for Europe’s military buildup, which is intrinsically linked to Ukraine’s immediate battlefield needs?
Trans-Atlantic Dynamics: How will Europe position its support for Ukraine in relation to the shifting policies of the US administration?
The Bottom Line
With President Zelenskyy in Brussels, the EU summit represents a pivotal moment for Ukraine and for Europe’s geopolitical future. The stakes could not be higher: securing immediate funding and weapons for a war-torn nation, maintaining unity among 27 member states, and defining Europe’s capacity as a autonomous global security actor. For Zelenskyy, this is a vital opportunity to ensure that Ukraine’s fight remains Europe’s fight.
