Ukrainian leader welcomes move as Donald Tusk says ‘it could be better’ after Russian frozen assets left out of deal

• EU leaders agree €90bn loan for Ukraine but without use of frozen Russian assets

In his first comments on Ukraine, Putin swiftly blames Kyiv for the continuing war, saying “they are basically refusing to finish this conflict via peaceful means” (whatever that means from the literally invading party).

But he says there are “some signals … indicating they are willing to engage in some type of dialogue.”

Ukrainian president says case for transfer of assets to fund war effort is ‘morally clear and just’

Germany’s chancellor Friedrich Merz confirms his support for the EU’s reparations loan, saying he sees “no better option.”

He diplomatically acknowledges Belgium’s concerns, and says he hopes “we can address them together” to “send a signal of strength and resolve … towards Russia.”