Moscow Warns of Retaliation if Europe Taps Russian Assets to Aid Ukraine

As European officials convene to discuss a proposal to provide Ukraine with a $165 billion loan backed by frozen Russian state assets, they are increasingly aware of the potential for Moscow to retaliate against such a move. The plan, which aims to utilize immobilized Russian funds to support Ukraine's war-torn economy, has sparked concerns about the possible consequences of tapping into these assets.According to sources, European policymakers are weighing the benefits of using the frozen Russian assets to help Ukraine against the risks of triggering a backlash from Russia. The Kremlin has repeatedly warned that any attempt to seize or utilize Russian state assets would be considered a hostile act, potentially leading to retaliatory measures against European interests.The proposal to lend Ukraine $165 billion using Russian state assets as collateral has gained traction in recent weeks, with some European officials arguing that it would be a crucial step in supporting Ukraine's economic stability and helping the country to recover from the devastating impact of the ongoing conflict. However, others have expressed concerns about the potential risks and unintended consequences of such a move.As European officials gather to discuss the proposal, they are likely to consider the potential implications of Moscow's warnings. Any retaliatory action from Russia could have significant consequences for European economies, particularly if Moscow decides to target key sectors such as energy or trade. European policymakers will need to carefully weigh these risks against the potential benefits of supporting Ukraine and make a decision that balances their commitment to helping the country with the need to avoid triggering a wider conflict.