International leaders express indignation following Russian attacks that targeted EU structures in Kyiv
The European Union (EU) is set to ramp up its response to Russia's aggression in Ukraine, as EU foreign ministers gather in Copenhagen this weekend.
The meeting, scheduled for Saturday, will mark the first time the option of moving frozen Russian assets is discussed. According to the EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Kaja Kallas, increasing pressure on Russia is necessary.
The discussions will focus on moving $230 billion worth of frozen Russian assets into riskier investments. The potential earnings from these investments, if realised, could provide much-needed funds for Ukraine's defence and reconstruction efforts. The profits could also be used to compensate for the damage caused by Russia, such as the severe damage inflicted on the EU's mission in downtown Kyiv during a recent Russian air attack.
At least 10 people were killed and dozens were injured in this attack, which also destroyed many buildings, including the EU diplomatic mission in Kyiv. However, no staff from the European Union's mission in Kyiv were harmed.
EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen was outraged by the attack and has been advocating for a tougher stance against Russia. She is planning to ratchet up pressure on Russia in the coming weeks and is advancing the work on the Russian frozen assets to contribute to Ukraine's defence and reconstruction.
The EU Ambassador to Ukraine, Katarina Mathernova, posted photos of the damaged diplomatic mission in Kyiv and declared that the EU will not be intimidated. She also stated that this incident is an example of how Russia seeks peace.
In addition to discussions on frozen assets, EU foreign ministers will also discuss a 19th sanctions package against Moscow aimed at reducing its ability to continue attacking Ukraine. The ministers will also discuss potential security guarantees for Ukraine in a peace agreement with Russia.
Defence ministers will meet a day earlier, on Friday, to discuss potential security guarantees for Ukraine in a peace agreement with Russia. The discussions will also include improving the EU's capabilities to defend its territory in a worst-case scenario where Russia is not stopped in Ukraine.
EU foreign ministers are not optimistic that a peace deal will soon be reached with Russia, but they are determined to support Ukraine in its fight for sovereignty and peace. The decisions made in Copenhagen this weekend could mark a significant turning point in the EU's response to Russia's aggression in Ukraine.
