Russian Frozen Assets May Fund Trump’s $10B Ukraine Arms Package

Europe considers using frozen Russian assets to finance a $10 billion arms package for Ukraine proposed by Donald Trump, The Gaze reports, citing The Telegraph. 

According to the plan, the profits from the nearly 200 billion euros of Central Bank of Russia assets frozen by the European Union could become part of the EU's contribution to the new war chest. 

This potential step was first officially discussed at the level of European governments after Donald Trump announced his intention to conclude a deal under which NATO would purchase American weapons and air defense systems for further transfer to Ukraine. 

“It is widely considered that Nato’s support mission for Ukraine – Nsatu – will play the lead role in coordinating purchases of American weapons and their eventual delivery to Kyiv,” NATO official stated. 

As outlined by the most likely plan, the financial fund under NATO control will be filled by European allies and Canada. It will be used to finance the purchase of American weapons and ammunition from a list provided by the Ukrainian government. 

Polish Foreign Minister Radoslaw Sikorski suggested that the EU should finance its contribution to the fund from the profits from frozen Russian assets. “Should it be a burden shouldered by our taxpayers or the Russians,” he asked. 

In addition, it is expected that the U.S. scheme will help NATO to get closer to the 3.5% defense spending target, making it easier for countries to achieve this objective. 

The Gaze previously informed that a new U.S. Senate bill aims to help return Ukrainian children abducted by Russia and use frozen Russian assets to support them.