Is EU discussing confiscation of Russian assets? Zelenskyy's Office dispels rumors
Photo: Iryna Mudra, Deputy Head of the Presidential Office (Vitalii Nosach, RBC-Ukraine)
The European Union continues discussions on the confiscation of Russian assets, with debates on the matter ongoing, states Deputy Head of the Presidential Office Iryna Mudra.
"Yesterday, a fake news story was published by a Russian journalist working for a European outlet, claiming that the EU would not confiscate frozen Russian assets… It was surprising to see leading Ukrainian media and bloggers pick up and share this news. In reality, the European Union has not stopped discussions on the assets. Despite all statements, Europe is maturing — believe me," Mudra assured.
She also emphasized that Western countries will keep Russian assets frozen until the aggressor state ends the war and compensates for the damages.
Mudra explained that the decision to transfer Russian assets to Ukraine is made by each country individually and is not within the EU’s competence. To transfer the assets, countries will need to amend their legislation. Ukrainian officials are actively working on this issue daily with EU countries, the UK, Japan, and others.
According to the deputy head of the Presidential Office, Russian assets are planned to be directed toward Ukraine’s defense and reconstruction.
Rumors about Russian assets
Yesterday, DW reported that EU countries were allegedly no longer raising the issue of confiscating Russian assets.
The outlet specified that several countries oppose this initiative, arguing that the assets are supposedly a "bargaining chip" in peace negotiations.
