bloc

The West African bloc Ecowas took a similar action, while urging the military to return to the barracks.

Proponents argue that if the bloc does not act now to use the money, then it risks losing control of it under a potential US-backed peace deal.

In response, the European Union crafted a counterproposal more acceptable to Ukraine, and its member states are rushing to rearm as the bloc looks for ways to break its institutional gridlock.

The EU Ombudsman monitors the functioning of the bloc's administration but has no binding powers.

The European Union could fine Elon Musk's X platform for breaking its digital rules by the end of 2025 -- two years into a probe that has tested the bloc's resolve to police the online space.