Scholz supports idea to use profits from Russian assets to fund arms for Ukraine

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz at the European Council on March 21. Photo: video screenshot/European Council archive video, March 21

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz approves the idea of using the money coming from Russian assets to military assistance for Ukraine.

Scholz said that at the European Council which is being held in Brussels on March 21-22.

“These [profits from frozen Russian assets – ed.] should first of all be used to buy those weapons and ammunition that Ukraine needs to defend itself,” stated German Chancellor.

He expressed his hope that all the EU member states would agree on this matter.

Indeed, many European leaders agree that Ukraine now direly needs arms that can prevent more destruction of infrastructure. However, there are already two European countries who voiced their doubts, Hungary and Austria.

Federal Chancellor of Austria spoke against spending profits from frozen Russian assets on weapons for Ukraine at the European Council as well. Karl Nehammer suggested that the funds should be used on Ukraine’s recovery instead.

Previously, DW wrote that Hungary may also refuse to approve Borrell’s plan on frozen Russian assets.

On March 20, before the summit of EU leaders, the EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Josep Borrell presented his offer to use 90% of profits from frozen Russian assets to provide Ukraine with military equipment and said he expected it to be approved by the EU.

Read also: Hungary will block Borrell’s plan to use profits from frozen Russian assets on weapons for Ukraine