Italy has stepped into the front line of opposition to the European Commission’s plan to deploy Russia’s frozen sovereign assets for Ukraine, aligning itself with Belgium in a move that complicates Brussels’ efforts to secure political backing ahead of a crucial EU leaders’ summit. Rome’s intervention marks a significant escalation, given Italy’s weight as the bloc’s third largest member state by population and voting power, and comes days before EU leaders meet to discuss long term financial support for Kyiv.

The European Commission has been pressing member states to agree on a scheme that would allow the EU to use roughly €210 billion of immobilised Russian reserves to support Ukraine’s economy. Most of the funds are held at the Euroclear clearing house in Belgium, making Brussels particularly exposed to legal and financial risks. The plan is intended to be finalised at the European Council meeting on 18 and 19 December, where leaders are expected to confront mounting divisions.

Belgium has long voiced concerns that it could be left liable if Russia successfully challenges the seizure of its assets in court. Until now, however, it lacked a heavyweight ally willing to publicly question the Commission’s approach. Italy’s decision to join Belgium has altered the diplomatic landscape, giving fresh momentum to sceptics who argue the legal footing of the proposal remains uncertain …