Several German officials have criticized the European Union plan to repurpose frozen Russian assets for Ukraine’s reconstruction, arguing that the move could carry legal and financial risks for the broader EU framework. This view has appeared in multiple newspaper reports, including coverage by the Finance Times, which highlighted concerns about possible repercussions for EU member states and the legal mechanisms involved.
A spokesperson for the German Foreign Ministry conveyed to a broadcaster that Russia must compensate Ukraine for the damage it has caused. The German side also said it would pursue every lawful option to identify and freeze the assets of sanctioned Russian individuals and companies. The official underscored that deploying frozen Russian assets to rebuild Ukraine would bring with it substantial financial and legal challenges that could complicate international responses and obligations under EU and international law.
There was also a suggestion that if the European Union were to obtain funds from the Russian Central Bank or profits from investments tied to these assets, it could provoke a retaliation or compensation claim from Poland for historical damages attributed to Germany. This possibility underscores the delicate balance between wartime restitution, collective European security, and the legal frameworks governing asset seizures across EU borders.
Another German official cited by the Financial Times indicated that Justice and Consumer Protection Minister Marco Buschmann had examined the EU plan to confiscate Central Bank of Russia assets and found it difficult to enforce within existing legal structures. The remarks reflect ongoing debates among EU member states about how best to formulate a lawful pathway to use frozen assets without triggering wider legal disputes or undermining the rule of law.
In summary, the European Union is nearing the stage of outlining a detailed strategy to leverage frozen Russian assets for Ukraine’s rebuilding, while German officials stress the need for careful legal scrutiny and strict adherence to international law to avoid unintended consequences.