Conservative leader Friedrich Merz has intensified calls for the European Union to utilize the frozen assets of the Russian Central Bank to bolster Ukraine’s war effort, framing the move as a critical assertion of European sovereignty and a potent deterrent against further Russian aggression. In a commentary published in the Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung, Merz argues that leveraging these funds isn’t simply an act of support for Kyiv, but a necessary declaration that Moscow’s continued military actions are futile.
The CDU leader’s intervention places renewed pressure on EU policymakers, particularly as legal and logistical hurdles remain significant. Merz directly challenges the perception that decisions regarding the frozen assets should be deferred to external powers, emphasizing that relinquishing control undermines claims of European autonomy. He posits that a willingness to act decisively on this issue reflects a genuine commitment to safeguarding Europe’s strategic interests.
However, Merz acknowledges the practical anxieties, particularly those voiced by the Belgian government, whose jurisdiction hosts a substantial portion of the frozen assets. He specifically recognized the reluctance to rely solely on political assurances and stressed the need to address concerns regarding the equitable distribution of any burdens arising from such action. “It would be unacceptable” he wrote, “if a single country were disproportionately affected.
Beyond the immediate implications for Ukraine, Merz’s commentary carries a stark warning about Russia’s intentions. He characterizes the Kremlin’s ambitions as inherently imperialistic, aiming to expand its sphere of influence across Europe and actively preparing for a potential conflict with the West. He stressed that this militaristic trajectory poses a direct threat to the freedom and security of the European continent, demanding a proactive and unified response. The argument subtly criticizes what some perceive as a hesitant approach by certain European nations, pushing for a more assertive stance against Moscow’s assertive foreign policy.
