Third transfer of €1.6 billion proceeds from immobilised Russian Central Bank assets made available in support of Ukraine
Last Friday, the European Union received €1.6 billion in so-called windfall profits generated by the interest on the cash balances originating from immobilised assets of the Russian Central Bank, held by central securities depositories. This marks the third transfer to the EU, following a first tranche delivered in July 2024 and a second tranche delivered in April 2025. It covers revenues accumulated during the first half of 2025.
These windfall profits come from assets frozen under the EU sanctions imposed in response to Russias ongoing war of aggression against Ukraine. While the assets themselves remain blocked, the interest on the cash balances can be used to support Ukraine. 90 % of the first two tranches were used to support Ukraine via the European Peace Facility (EPF), and 10 % via the Ukraine Facility. As from this third tranche, 95 % of the proceeds will instead be used to support Ukraine via the Ukraine Loan Cooperation Mechanism (ULCM), and 5 % via the EPF.
The ULCM provides non-repayable support to assist Ukraine in repaying the macro-financial assistance loan from the EU as well as loans from bilateral lenders under the mechanism. Total loan support under the mechanism amounts to €45 billion. In addition to this, the EPF helps Ukraine to address its pressing military and defence needs.
This measure is part of the EUs continued commitment to stand with Ukraine for as long as it takes.
(For more information: Balazs Ujvari – Tel.: +32 2 295 45 78; Isabel Otero Barderas – Tel.: +32 2 296 69 25)
Commission takes steps to address challenges in EU Eastern border regions
The European Commission has launched a call for evidence to guide the development of the ‘Pact for the Eastern Border Regions. The Pact, which is expected to be adopted by the end of 2025, will explore measures to overcome obstacles to socioeconomic development while bolstering civil preparedness and security across the eastern regions.
The Commission has already proposed targeted support measures for these regions, including a mid-term review of Cohesion policy to support economic transformation, resilience and defence-related initiatives, as well as a reinforced budget in the proposed 2028-2034 Multiannual Financial Framework.
Raffaele Fitto, Executive Vice-President for Cohesion and Reforms, said: The eastern border regions are not just national borders - they are European borders. EU engagement in these regions is crucial for safeguarding our shared European values. We have a responsibility to ensure that people living in these areas feel safe, protected, and supported. The Pact for Eastern Border Regions will act as a roadmap to address their specific challenges, offering tailored solutions to foster development and a clear vision for EU-level support”.
The first step in the consultation process is the call for evidence, open until 4 September on the ‘Have your Say portal. It is primarily targeted at national and local authorities, enterprises, civil society organisations, youth and academia.
(For more information: Maciej Berestecki – Tel.: + 32 229-96302; Isabel Arriaga e Cunha – Tel.: 32 229-52117)
STATEMENTS
Joint statement by High Representative/Vice-President Kallas and Commissioner Kos on the fifth anniversary of the fraudulent presidential elections in Belarus
In view of the fifth anniversary of the fraudulent presidential elections in the country, High Representative/Vice-President Kaja Kallas and Commissioner Kos issued the following statement on Saturday 9 August:
“The ongoing repression in Belarus is unacceptable and must come to an end.
Today marks five years since the fraudulent presidential elections in Belarus. Hundreds of thousands peacefully stood up for democracy but faced brutal repression. Recently released political prisoners have shared horrific stories of torture. While some have been freed, over 1,000 remain imprisoned under cruel conditions.
We call on the Belarusian authorities to immediately release all political prisoners, end the repression, and engage in an inclusive national dialogue. The ongoing crackdown on civil society must stop. Belarus must also end its support for Russias illegal war against Ukraine.
We stand in full solidarity with the Belarusian people. The EU has mobilised €170 million since 2020 to support Belarusian civil society, independent media, and victims of the repression, and will continue imposing sanctions on those who repress democracy and violate human rights.
The EU will continue to support the Belarusian people on their path to democracy for as long as it takes.”
(For more information: Anitta Hipper – Tel.: +32 474587392; Guillaume Mercier – Tel.: +32 460755311)
Tentative agendas for forthcoming Commission meetings
Note that these items can be subject to changes.
Upcoming events of the European Commission
Eurostat press releases