Zelenskyy: Ukraine's survival depends on access to frozen Russian assets

According to him, financial support is critically necessary for Ukraine to sustain its economy and continue fighting against Russian aggression.

"I hope, God bless, we will get this decision. We will have to find an alternative, it’s a question of our surviving. That’s why we need it very much. And I count on partners," Zelenskyy said.

EU delays decision on Russian assets

The EU has postponed until December its decision on using frozen Russian state assets to provide Ukraine with loans worth about 140 billion euros. Kyiv needs these funds as early as the beginning of next year.

EU Commissioner for Economy Valdis Dombrovskis recently warned that without reliable financial commitments from Europe, the IMF will not be able to unlock a new aid package for Kyiv, which could amount to approximately $ 8 billion.

Zelenskyy emphasized that Russia must pay for this war.

"Russia has to pay for this war," Zelenskyy said.

He believes that money from frozen assets will help Ukraine purchase more air defense systems from the US and Europe and finance the production of drones for strikes on Russian targets.

Zelenskyy appeals to Trump

Zelenskyy also appealed to US President Donald Trump, who is preparing to return to the White House, calling on him to send a “signal” to European leaders to act more decisively.

"Trump has more than five billion of assets, maybe he will decide to spend this money — it’ll help", Zelenskyy concluded, adding that when the US makes strong sanctions decisions, "European partners also do some strong decisions".

Russian assets and Ukraine’s 2025 budget

Ukraine’s international partners continue to look for ways to cover the state budget deficit for 2025. One option currently under discussion is the creation of a so-called reparations loan, which would allow frozen Russian assets to be directed toward supporting Ukraine.

Despite delays in making relevant decisions, there are currently no critical risks to Ukraine’s public finances, as the country’s budgetary needs for the current year are already secured.

Meanwhile, the European Commission is developing a new plan for financial assistance to Ukraine, with the details expected to be announced soon.