The European People’s Party (EPP) leader Manfred Weber has staunchly defended the recent EU summit decisions regarding support for Ukraine, dismissing emerging criticism as shortsighted. Speaking to the German Funke-Mediengruppe, Weber emphasized the symbolic significance of the EU’s commitment, arguing that the moral message conveyed to Kyiv is arguably more vital than the immediate financial aid.
Weber’s remarks come amidst ongoing debates about the long-term strategy for assisting Ukraine and the contentious question of utilizing frozen Russian assets. The EU’s ability to determine the fate of the €210 billion sequestered from Russia represents a powerful lever, he asserted, framing it as a crucial element in securing accountability for the conflict’s devastation.
When pressed on the feasibility of securing reparations from Russia, Weber cautiously acknowledged it as a point for future negotiation, but underscored the strength afforded by the current frozen assets. “This will be part of the larger discussions” he stated, pivoting to highlight Europe’s current leverage.
However, Weber’s seemingly optimistic stance glosses over the complexities and potential pitfalls surrounding the utilization of the frozen assets. Legal challenges remain a significant obstacle, with questions surrounding international law and the potential for retaliatory measures from Russia. Moreover, the long-term implications of setting a precedent for seizing sovereign assets – regardless of circumstance – are raising concerns among some legal experts and within member states, potentially undermining the EU’s commitment to the rule of law. The move, while presented as a demonstration of solidarity, risks opening a Pandora’s Box of future geopolitical and legal complications and the true effectiveness of Weber’s “strong instrument” remains to be seen.
