**EU Considers Seizing Russia’s Frozen Assets**
The European Union is discussing ways to take control of Russia’s frozen central bank assets. These assets, worth $280 billion, could be used to provide financial and military aid to Ukraine.
If Russia doesn’t pay the money owed to Ukraine, the EU might confiscate its assets. This idea has been proposed as concerns grow that the United States may not give as much support to Ukraine in the future.
**Escalating Tensions**
Recently, US President Donald Trump criticized Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, calling him a “dictator”. This has led to tensions between the two leaders. As a result, Zelensky is urging European leaders to take more responsibility for helping Ukraine.
**Frozen Assets**
The EU, along with other countries like the US and Australia, has already frozen $280 billion in Russian central bank assets. Another $58 billion in private Russian assets have also been frozen under sanctions.
However, some EU nations are opposed to confiscating these assets, saying it could have serious consequences for the international use of the euro currency and the way governments handle their own money.
**Alternative Options**
Another idea being considered is using the frozen assets specifically to help rebuild Ukraine’s energy infrastructure. However, there are still debates about how this should be done legally.
**G7 Pledges Funds**
The G7 has already promised some of the profits from the frozen Russian assets to a $50 billion loan for Ukraine. The EU is now discussing whether it needs a court order to take control of Russia’s assets or if a damage assessment alone would be enough.
