Frozen Russian assets worth €200 billion should go to Ukraine, - Strack-Zimmermann
The European Union should unfreeze approximately 200 billion euros in frozen Russian assets for Ukraine. These funds are needed not only to support the country during the war, but also for its subsequent reconstruction.
According to Censor.NET, Marie-Agnes Strack-Zimmermann, chair of the European Parliament’s Committee on Security and Defense, stated this in an interview with Ukrinform.
"Yes, absolutely. These 200 billion in frozen assets need to be unfrozen right now to support Ukraine and to help rebuild the country. This also sends an important message to the people, encouraging them to stay in their homeland and rebuild the country after the war," she emphasized.
Schtruck-Zimmermann noted that Germany did not oppose this decision, and the federal chancellor made significant efforts to advance it. According to her, the main resistance came from Belgium, where a significant portion of the frozen funds is held, as well as from some other countries.
"I think we should take on this risk together. But this money must be transferred to Ukraine. Russia must pay for starting this war," the MEP said.
Europe must ensure long-term support for Ukraine
Separately, Strack-Zimmermann emphasized the need for continued military and financial assistance to Ukraine, particularly in light of a possible further reduction in support from the United States.
"There are quite a few countries in Europe that support Ukraine. But, to be frank, out of the 27 member states of the European Union, only a few are actively doing so. And there should be significantly more. The main thing is to ensure continuous support for Ukraine," said the chair of the European Parliament committee.
Schtruck-Zimmermann added that Ukraine is developing many new technologies and innovative solutions that it can offer Europe. This opens up additional opportunities for industrial cooperation and mutual benefit.
"I hope that Europeans will continue to support Ukraine. Elections are taking place everywhere, and, unfortunately, we are seeing that politicians with critical views are also being elected. So we can only hope," the MEP emphasized.
