German Chancellor Insists Frozen Russian Assets Fund Ukraine, Not U.S.

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has stated that proceeds from frozen Russian assets must support Ukraine and not benefit the United States. Speaking to journalists in Berlin, Merz emphasized that the issue is a European priority. He argued there is no economic justification for any mobilized funds to go to the U.S. "The American government knows that," Merz said. The statement addresses ongoing international discussions about using immobilized Russian state assets to aid Ukraine's reconstruction. Many Western nations froze these assets after Russia's 2022 invasion. The European Union and G7 nations are currently debating a U.S. proposal to use the assets as collateral for a loan to Ukraine. Merz's comments highlight a European desire to ensure any financial solution remains focused on the region.