Core Viewpoint - The Belgian Prime Minister Alexander De Croo has expressed strong opposition to the EU's plan to use frozen Russian assets, amounting to over €100 billion, for Ukraine's reconstruction, citing significant legal and financial risks [1][3][5]. Group 1: Legal and Financial Risks - De Croo insists that any agreement to use the frozen assets must include full guarantees from participating member states, as Belgium is the custodian of these assets and would face repercussions if Ukraine fails to repay [3][5]. - The use of frozen sovereign assets during wartime is unprecedented and raises serious concerns regarding international law, which protects state assets from arbitrary seizure [5][12]. - The European Clearing Bank has warned that utilizing these assets could lead to legal liabilities, as Russia may pursue legal action for compensation [5][9]. Group 2: Divergent Opinions Among EU Members - There is a lack of consensus within the EU, with countries like France and Germany supporting the plan, while others, including Belgium, express skepticism due to potential legal ramifications [7][9]. - Some diplomats have criticized Belgium for opposing the plan despite having profited €1.7 billion in taxes from the frozen assets, while Belgium maintains its commitment to provide over €3 billion in aid to Ukraine [7][9]. Group 3: Broader Implications - The plan's advancement could exacerbate tensions between Russia and Ukraine, with President Putin already responding by implementing temporary management of assets belonging to "unfriendly" nations [9][12]. - Historical precedents show that unilateral actions regarding foreign assets often lead to negative consequences, highlighting the need for careful consideration of legal frameworks [12].

Group 1 - Venezuela's Defense Minister Lopez announced the initiation of a nationwide voluntary conscription registration program aimed at training citizens to defend the country amid regional tensions [1] - President Maduro stated that over 4.5 million citizens have registered to participate in the Bolivarian militia program, which will be conducted at military units and 15,751 defense bases across the country [1] - The U.S. is deploying a naval task force to the Caribbean near Venezuela, consisting of approximately 4,500 military personnel, including 2,200 Marines, to combat drug trafficking [3][5] Group 2 - The U.S. naval task force includes various ships capable of significant firepower, such as amphibious assault ships and destroyers, which pose a considerable threat to smaller nations like Venezuela [5] - Maduro condemned the U.S. military deployment as a violation of international law and a threat to regional peace, asserting that it is an attempt to force regime change in Venezuela [6][8] - The Bolivarian Alliance for the Peoples of Our America (ALBA) expressed strong opposition to U.S. military actions in the Caribbean, emphasizing the need for respect for Venezuela's sovereignty and territorial integrity [9][11] Group 3 - Colombian President Petro warned that U.S. intervention in Venezuela could lead to regional instability and conflict, potentially dragging Colombia into turmoil [11][13] - Brazil's chief advisor expressed deep concern over U.S. military presence near Venezuela, advocating for cooperation rather than unilateral intervention to address illegal activities [13] - The UN Secretary-General's spokesperson urged both the U.S. and Venezuela to de-escalate tensions and resolve disputes peacefully [13]