War in Ukraine: Zelensky wants Russian funds frozen for arms purchases

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has claimed billions of Russian dollars confiscated in the European Union and other countries. “Can we take this 300 billion (US dollars) that belongs to us? Can we take the 300 billion, support our people and use this money to buy weapons in all countries in the world?” the head of state asked at a press conference in Budapest. This is an answer to the question of what Kiev will do if the USA stops supporting Ukraine under elected President Donald Trump.

In addition, it is only fair since the destruction caused by Russia in Ukraine amounts to many times the amount confiscated. A “strong Europe” would not only look to Washington, but would also “make a strong decision” and give the money to Ukraine.

At the same time, Zelensky called for sanctions against Russia to be tightened, citing as an example the oil tankers of a “Russian shadow fleet” that sail unhindered through the waters of EU and NATO states. “Russia’s ‘shadow fleet’ alone earned more in almost three years of war than all the world’s aid to Ukraine in this war combined,” he emphasized. Therefore, Ukraine cannot keep up with its war opponent financially.

After the Russian invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, over 200 billion euros in funds from the Russian central bank were frozen in several European Union states. Part of the interest income will serve as security for a billion-dollar loan from the EU to Ukraine.