为挺乌克兰，欧洲准备对俄罗斯近2000亿欧元本金动手了

Core Viewpoint - European countries are considering using frozen Russian assets, totaling approximately €194 billion, to support Ukraine in its defense and reconstruction efforts, moving beyond just utilizing the interest generated from these assets [4][6][10]. Group 1: Background and Initial Reactions - Since the large-scale invasion of Ukraine by Russia in February 2022, Western nations have frozen around $300 billion of Russian central bank assets, with approximately €200 billion held in Europe [4]. - Initially, many European countries were hesitant to directly confiscate Russian assets due to concerns about violating international law and the potential impact on the euro's status as a reserve currency [4][6]. - The G7 has been using the interest from these frozen assets to assist Ukraine, amounting to €50 billion in loans, but the principal amount remains untouched [4]. Group 2: Shift in European Stance - By 2025, the positions of France and Germany began to shift, with discussions around using these assets as leverage in negotiations post-conflict, rather than outright confiscation [6][9]. - The European Commission proposed using the frozen assets to provide Ukraine with compensation loans potentially reaching €170 billion, utilizing the assets as collateral for EU-issued zero-interest bonds [6][13]. Group 3: Financial and Political Implications - The urgency for utilizing these assets has increased due to a reduction in U.S. military aid to Ukraine, prompting Europe to consider more financial responsibility [6][10]. - The G7 finance ministers agreed to expedite funding for Ukraine's defense using these assets, although they face challenges in gaining unanimous support from all EU member states [9][13]. - Russia has reacted strongly against any use of its frozen assets, labeling such actions as theft and threatening repercussions against EU countries [9][10]. Group 4: Future Considerations - The proposed mechanism to use frozen assets for Ukraine's aid could set a precedent for how sovereign assets are handled in future conflicts, raising concerns among developing countries about the safety of their own funds [16]. - The European Central Bank has emphasized the importance of maintaining confidence in the euro amidst these discussions, as the financial stability of the region is at stake [16][17]. - The ongoing discussions reflect a balancing act between supporting Ukraine and ensuring the financial integrity of European institutions, with potential legal and political hurdles to navigate [16][17].