Austrian chancellor opposes using frozen Russian assets for Ukraine weapons

Austria blocks transferring the profits from frozen Russian assets to purchase weapons for the Ukrainian army, chancellor Karl Nehammer says.

The Austrian government chief said that he would not mind using the proceeds from Russian assets for Ukraine restoration. 

He stated that Austria aims to not use the money for weapons purchase.

"We are currently in the process of discussing this issue. For us, the neutrals, it is important that the money we approve is not spent on weapons and ammunition. Initially, it was discussed that it should be invested in reconstruction in Ukraine, and I think this is a reasonable proposal." 

On February 24, the G7 countries issued a statement confirming that they will keep Russian assets frozen in their jurisdictions until the end of the full-scale war.

On February 28, the EU Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen suggested that the bloc considers using the proceeds of frozen Russian assets for the benefit of Ukraine, including for the purchase of military equipment.

The bloc has prepared a legislative proposal under which Ukraine will start receiving income from the blocked assets of the Russian Central Bank in July.