The United States supports the European Union’s plan to use frozen Russian assets to help Ukraine and end the war with Russia. The European Commission has proposed that EU governments can access up to 185 billion euros of the 210 billion euros in Russian assets frozen in Europe, without actually taking ownership of them. This move follows the United States and allies’ decision to freeze about $300 billion of Russian sovereign assets after Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022.
However, the proposal faces delays, particularly due to concerns from Belgium, where most frozen assets are stored. Germany raised worries that recent drone sightings in Belgium might be a warning from Russia. Moscow denies any involvement and has threatened consequences if its assets are taken. Recently, U. S. President Donald Trump imposed sanctions on major Russian oil companies, Rosneft and Lukoil, as part of ongoing efforts to pressure Russia economically and seek a peace deal. Washington is considering further actions to increase pressure on Russia.
With information from Reuters