German lawmakers signal openness to using frozen Russian assets

German lawmakers Jens Spahn (CDU/CSU) and Matthias Miersch (SPD) have expressed support for exploring the use of frozen Russian assets as part of broader European efforts to aid Ukraine.

The comments came during an unannounced visit to Kyiv, amid ongoing EU negotiations over a new package of sanctions against Moscow, Caliber.Az reports, citing foreign media.

“All options are possible” when it comes to using frozen Russian assets as part of the European Union's support for Ukraine, said Matthias Miersch, chairman of the German Social Democratic Party (SPD) group in the Bundestag.

Miersch suggested the issue could be addressed within the framework of the current discussions among EU member states over additional sanctions against Russia.

His visit to the Ukrainian capital was made alongside Jens Spahn, a prominent figure in Germany’s conservative CDU/CSU bloc, who echoed the call for stronger action against Moscow.

“There must be consequences” for Russia, Spahn said, adding that a debate is needed “whether and how these frozen assets can be used, despite all legal considerations.”

Currently, approximately €210 billion in assets belonging to the Russian Central Bank remain frozen across the European Union, with a significant portion held by the Brussels-based financial institution Euroclear. Since 2024, the EU has begun channeling interest earnings from these assets to fund military aid for Ukraine, including weapons and ammunition.

However, the prospect of directly seizing the frozen principal continues to divide opinion within the bloc. Several EU countries remain cautious due to legal uncertainties and concerns over potential retaliatory measures from Moscow. Analysts have also warned that such a move could damage the EU’s reputation as a stable and trustworthy financial center, possibly deterring foreign investors and governments.

During their stay in Kyiv, Miersch and Spahn are expected to hold meetings focused on Germany’s continued support for Ukraine and the broader diplomatic efforts to bring an end to Russia’s war of aggression.

By Vafa Guliyeva