The United States is stepping up its work to move frozen Russian assets held in Western jurisdictions to support Ukraine, according to reports cited by The Washington Post. The article notes that under President Joe Biden there are more frequent calls for Western governments to redirect billions of dollars in frozen Bank of Russia assets to aid Kiev.
It states that senior U.S. officials are increasing pressure on Western governments to deploy the frozen assets for Ukraine, while stressing that any use of these funds is not meant to replace the broad economic and military assistance already provided by Washington. Some officials nevertheless suggest these assets could be used to revive Ukraine, with the caution that such moves would not constitute direct military aid.
Earlier comments attributed to top U.S. officials indicated that Washington is examining legal avenues to utilize about $300 billion in Russian assets that are frozen in Europe and elsewhere to aid Ukraine. The discussions come amid concerns about political obstacles that could complicate the use of Western taxpayer funds for Ukraine’s defense and stabilization efforts.
The Washington Post reports that American officials emphasize the potential transfers would supplement existing support rather than supplant it, aiming to bolster Ukraine’s resilience and reconstruction. The discussions involve complex legal and diplomatic questions, including how to channel assets while maintaining regulatory safeguards and international commitments.
Officials have highlighted that most of the frozen funds reside outside the United States, with a substantial portion located in European financial centers. In the European Union, the total amount of Russian sovereign assets frozen remains a subject of ongoing assessment and negotiation, reflecting the broader effort to align sanctions with strategic goals and regional stability. (The Washington Post)