Merz optimistic regarding a use of Russian state assets
At the EU summit, Federal Chancellor Merz called for Russian state assets to be used for Ukraine. While the plans are met mostly with agreement, it is unlikely that a decision will be made before December.
Brussels (dpa) – The EU has made some progress regarding its plans to use frozen Russian state assets to the benefit of Ukraine. However, it remains unclear for the time being, whether these plans can ultimately be realised, owing to considerable concerns expressed by Belgium as a key stakeholder. The EU Council President António Costa announced after an EU summit in Brussels that the decision would be made just before Christmas.
The plans that have been promoted by Federal Chancellor Friedrich Merz in particular, provide for money from the Russian central bank that has been frozen in the EU to be used for granting loans worth up to 140 billion euros to Ukraine. In view of liability issues and other concerns voiced by Belgium, Mr Merz stated that it was correct that there were some serious issues that needed to be resolved. He added that it had, however, been agreed that the matter would be pursued jointly, aiming to find a way to use the Russian funds.
The 19th package of sanctions against Russia was also adopted at the EU summit. It includes an import ban on Russian liquid natural gas. The EU sanctions are accompanied by further sanctions from Washington, as the US government also decided to sanction the two biggest Russian oil companies.
The so-called Coalition of the Willing is meeting in London this afternoon to discuss further support for Kyiv.
