Europe will use profits from frozen Russian assets to pay for weapons for Ukraine

At a joint press conference with French President Emmanuel Macron and Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk in Berlin, Mr. Scholz said: "We will use the windfall profits from Russia's frozen assets in Europe to finance the purchase of weapons for Ukraine."

Europe will use profits from Russia's eastern assets to pay for Ukraine's sanctions, picture 1 — German Chancellor Olaf Scholz receives French President Emmanuel Macron at the Chancellery in Berlin, Germany, January 22. Photo: Reuters

Mr. Scholz made the statement while listing the efforts of the European Union (EU) to increase support to Ukraine. European support is becoming more important as the US Congress delays passing a large aid package for Ukraine.

At the meeting, the leaders of Germany, France and Poland reaffirmed their support for Ukraine, whose army is facing a severe shortage of ammunition in its most difficult period since the conflict with Russia erupted two years ago.

Chancellor Scholz said the leaders agreed on the need to purchase more weapons for Ukraine from the international market, as well as to increase the production of military equipment, possibly in cooperation with partners in Ukraine.

The European Commission is expected to present concrete proposals in the coming days. In February, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen called on the EU to consider using profits from frozen Russian assets in Europe to jointly purchase military equipment for Ukraine.

Some EU member states such as Hungary have expressed reservations about the idea, but Mr Scholz believes EU countries will eventually accept the proposal, according to diplomats in Brussels.

In addition, Mr. Scholz said the leaders also agreed on the need for a coalition to provide long-range artillery to Kiev. Accordingly, this coalition will be established by the Ukraine Defense Contact Group - a US-led group of about 50 countries providing military support to Ukraine.

Meanwhile, French President Macron said: "We will do everything necessary to prevent Russia from winning this war. This is our firm determination and our solidarity." He also added that the three leaders agreed never to escalate tensions with Russia.

Hoai Phuong (according to Reuters)

Source