Former minister: EU, US eye legal use of frozen Russian assets for Ukraine

Former German Defence Minister Annegret Kramp-Karrenbauer has said that European nations and the US are actively discussing how to prevent Russia from reclaiming its frozen assets and exploring legal avenues to redirect these funds in support of Ukraine. 

She emphasised Ukraine’s urgent need for approximately $100 billion annually to sustain its defence against Russia, Caliber.Az reports via German media.

“It is entirely reasonable to consider how these assets can remain frozen and not be returned to Russia, and secondly, how we can lawfully use these funds—not through outright confiscation, which could lead to legal complications, but within a proper legal framework,” she explained.

The former minister noted that the issue is currently under active debate in various political and security circles across Europe and America. 

“Discussions are ongoing within Germany’s ruling parties and security institutions. Whether and when a decision will be reached depends on the consensus among international partners. Belgium and France, in particular, have significant interests, alongside the European Central Bank and all G7 nations. Nonetheless, these ideas are being seriously considered,” she added.

By Naila Huseynova