Russia Vows "Harshest Response" to EU Frozen Asset Seizure Plan
Moscow has issued a stern warning to the European Union, declaring that any attempt to confiscate its frozen assets will be met with an "extremely harsh reaction." Russia confirmed it is already formulating a comprehensive package of countermeasures in anticipation of such a move.
EU's Ambitious Proposal for Ukraine Aid
The European Commission recently put forth an unprecedented proposal to either directly use frozen Russian assets or leverage them for international borrowing. The goal is to raise 90 billion euros ($105 billion) to support Ukraine's beleaguered military and crucial public services amid its ongoing conflict with Russia.
Significantly, this plan seeks to utilize emergency powers to circumvent potential objections from EU member states perceived as more sympathetic to Russia, specifically mentioning Hungary and Slovakia.
Moscow Prepares "Package of Countermeasures"
Maria Zakharova, the Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman, emphasized Moscow's resolute position during a press briefing. "Any illegal actions involving our assets will not go unanswered," Zakharova stated. She further confirmed that "Preparations for a package of countermeasures in the event of actual theft and seizure of Russian Federation assets are already under way."
Internal EU Divisions and Belgian Concerns
The EU has been engaged in protracted discussions for several months, attempting to forge a legal mechanism that would permit the use of frozen Russian assets in Europe to provide loans to Ukraine. Belgium, the primary custodian of these frozen funds, has voiced strong opposition to the current proposal. The nation is demanding guarantees from its EU partners that they will share collective responsibility for any legal challenges that may arise from such an action.
Zakharova also openly criticized the internal EU deliberations, suggesting that "rational forces" within the bloc are actively working to block the plan, recognizing its alleged illegality and the potential for severe international repercussions. This ongoing tension underscores the widening geopolitical and economic rift between Russia and Western nations.
