Europe and Ukraine aligned: indefinite asset freeze marks a turning point

The Ukrainian World Congress (UWC) welcomes and strongly supports the European Union’s historic decision to indefinitely freeze Russian sovereign assets held in Europe. 

Since the earliest days of Russia’s full-scale invasion, the UWC has consistently called for the seizure and use of these frozen assets to support Ukraine’s defense, recovery, and reconstruction. Today’s decision marks a critical step toward fulfilling that call and demonstrates the EU’s alignment with the interests of Ukraine and the global Ukrainian community.

By immobilizing over €210 billion in Russian central bank assets, the EU has shown that it will not allow Moscow to exploit divisions or reclaim resources that must serve as future reparations for its war of aggression. This measure strengthens Europe’s economic security while advancing justice for Ukraine, ensuring that aggressors are held accountable for the destruction they cause.

The UWC commends EU leaders for advancing the plan to extend a loan of up to €165 billion to Ukraine, repayable only when Russia fulfills its obligation to compensate Ukraine for war damages. This innovative mechanism effectively transforms frozen Russian assets into a lifeline for Ukraine’s survival and resilience, while affirming the principle that aggressors must pay for their crimes.

This is not merely a financial decision — it is a moral and strategic turning point. The EU’s move demonstrates that Europe and Ukraine are united in purpose: defending freedom, ensuring accountability, and securing peace for future generations. 

Paul Grod, UWC President calls on all EU member states to finalize this agreement at the upcoming European Council summit. “Failure to do so would embolden Moscow and undermine Europe’s credibility. Success, however, will mark a decisive moment in the alignment of European and Ukrainian interests and in the global struggle for justice”.

The Ukrainian World Congress stands ready to continue mobilizing the Ukrainian diaspora and working with European institutions, governments, and civil society to ensure that these frozen assets are used effectively to defend freedom, rebuild Ukraine, and secure lasting peace.

This has been our call to action since the war began. Today, Europe has taken a bold step toward justice. Glory to Ukraine. Glory to the European Union for standing on the side of freedom.