Protesting farmers clash with police as EU debates trade deal

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has issued a stark warning regarding the dire situation on the battlefield if European leaders do not approve the use of frozen Russian assets to support Ukraine. The EU is currently deliberating on a $105 billion loan to sustain Kyiv's military efforts amid ongoing conflict with Russia.

Discussions at the EU summit in Brussels are focused on the potential use of frozen Russian assets to support Ukraine, with Ukrainian MP Lisa Yasko emphasizing the significance of this decision for Europe's leadership role. She stated that the outcome of the evening could reveal whether Europe can act decisively or if fear of Russia will prevail.

The signing of the EU-Mercosur free trade agreement has been postponed to January, as announced by EU chief Ursula von der Leyen during a summit in Brussels. This decision follows demands from Italy and France for a delay, primarily to seek additional protections for their farming sectors, disrupting the European Commission's plans to finalize the deal this week.

European Union leaders are convening in Brussels to discuss the potential use of frozen Russian assets to support Ukraine's urgent financial needs, as the country faces a significant cash shortfall amid ongoing conflict. This summit is being described as one of the most crucial since the 2008 financial crisis, with decisions expected to impact Ukraine's stability and future.

The signing of the EU-Mercosur trade pact has been postponed, as announced by Ursula von der Leyen to EU leaders. This delay comes amid rising tensions and protests, particularly from French farmers who are concerned about the implications of the deal on local agriculture.

EU leaders are in urgent discussions to secure a funding deal for Ukraine, emphasizing the critical choice between immediate financial support and the potential for increased conflict. The summit has highlighted the contentious proposal to utilize €210 billion of frozen Russian assets, with Belgium expressing reservations about the risks involved in such a scheme.

The European Court of Justice has ruled that Denmark's controversial 'ghetto law,' which allows for the demolition of apartment blocks in neighborhoods with a high percentage of residents from 'non-western' backgrounds, may be unlawful. This decision brings hope to residents of Copenhagen's targeted areas, who are now more confident in challenging the legislation in Danish courts.

A protest outside the European Parliament in Brussels escalated into violence as demonstrators opposed reforms to the common agricultural policy and proposed trade agreements. Footage captured police kicking a demonstrator on the ground, while some protesters vandalized property, prompting a response from riot police.