Kremlin warns EU: Using Russian assets for Ukraine is theft

The European Union is considering using frozen Russian assets worth $300 billion to finance a loan for Ukraine. Most of these funds—around €210 billion—are located in Europe. Of this amount, around €185 billion is managed by Euroclear in Brussels.

However, this plan has been met with fierce opposition. The Kremlin has described such action as “theft” and threatened legal consequences for states and individuals involved. According to Dmitry Peskov, this would seriously undermine confidence in the international financial system and the principle of property protection.

The reactions of European leaders have been mixed: while the Dutch prime minister considers the measure a serious option – provided that legal issues are clarified – French President Emmanuel Macron warns of a possible violation of international law.

The Kremlin also pointed out that such action could backfire on the European financial centers themselves.

(reuters, lup)