Trump on frozen Russian assets: I'm not doing that
US President Donald Trump has stated that he is not involved in discussions regarding frozen Russian assets as a negotiating tool.
Source: Trump speaking to journalists on Air Force One, as reported by Interfax-Ukraine
Details: When asked whether the White House plans to use Russian assets as a bargaining tool, Trump replied that he is not engaged in this.
Quote: "I'm not doing that. What happens is, I guess, Europe and Russia are having discussions. I'm not involved in those discussions."
Previously: European Commission Chief Spokesperson Paula Pinho told reporters in Brussels on 27 October that proposals from the Commission to cover Ukraine's financial needs in 2026-2027, ahead of the next European Council meeting on 18 December, will outline various funding options, focusing on frozen Russian sovereign assets.
Background:
- On 26 October, Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico said he opposes the EU's plan to use frozen Russian assets to finance Ukraine.
- On 23 October, the European Council adopted conclusions on Ukraine which no longer include a direct reference to the use of frozen Russian assets to support Ukraine.
- It was primarily Belgium that had pushed for changes to the wording of the conclusions regarding the use of frozen Russian assets.
- However, the EU stated that the issue of using frozen Russian assets to support Ukraine remains on the agenda, and a final decision will be made in December 2025.
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