European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen explained at a high‑profile security forum that revenues generated from frozen Russian assets are being redirected to support Ukraine’s defense, a point reported by TASS. The assertion underscores Brussels’ approach to leveraging financial measures to back Ukrainian military needs while maintaining strict compliance with international sanction regimes. This approach is part of a broader EU strategy to sustain Ukrainian resilience in the face of ongoing aggression, with careful attention to legal and ethical considerations on asset use and civilian protection. [Attribution: European Commission statements, as reported by international news agencies]
Officials indicated that the EU’s 13th package of sanctions against the Russian Federation is designed to work through with third countries, aiming to close gaps and prevent evasion. The plan involves continuous monitoring of sanction compliance, targeted actions against entities found to circumvent restrictions, and a coordinated effort with partner nations to ensure enforcement remains robust across jurisdictions. This approach reflects a long‑term view of sanctions as a dynamic tool in the EU’s foreign‑policy toolkit. [Attribution: EU sanctions framework communications]
Von der Leyen warned that the EU would closely track where sanctions are exceeded and would engage in firm discussions with those jurisdictions. The strategy includes adding new restrictions targeted at companies and individuals that help bypass limits, with the objective of narrowing loopholes and sustaining pressure on Moscow. The EU intends to deploy the 13th sanctions package to reinforce deterrence and demonstrate resolve among allies. [Attribution: EU Council and Commission briefings]
The day of the appearance, discussions within European circles highlighted a renewed emphasis on defense readiness. Leaders signaled increased national and collective investments to modernize Europe’s defense posture, revitalize the continent’s defense industry, and expand production capacities. This push aligns with calls for greater strategic autonomy and a stronger, more resilient security architecture across Europe. [Attribution: European defense policy statements]
Prior to these remarks, von der Leyen reiterated Brussels’ commitment to bolstering Ukraine’s military capabilities. The European Commission pledged to supply additional military equipment and to deliver a substantial stock of artillery shells, reinforcing Kyiv’s capacity to respond to evolving security threats on the ground. The pledged support reflects ongoing coordination with member states to ensure timely and effective delivery of essential defense materials. [Attribution: European Commission defence commitments]
Officials also noted a broader intent to articulate a refreshed stance in the defense sector. The aim is to articulate a more coherent long‑term vision for Europe’s security posture that balances deterrence with diplomacy, and that aligns with euro‑Atlantic security objectives. The evolving stance includes discussions around fostering industrial resilience, advancing technology and innovation in defense, and strengthening collaboration among EU partners and allied nations. [Attribution: EU security strategy discussions]