国际观察｜“无限期冻结”俄资产 欧盟缘何“孤注一掷”

Core Viewpoint - The European Union (EU) has announced an "indefinite freeze" on Russian assets within its territory, aiming to facilitate financing for Ukraine while facing significant international legal controversies and strong condemnation from Russia [2][3]. Group 1: EU's Decision and Implications - The EU Council decided to implement an "indefinite freeze" on Russian assets, which will remain in effect until Russia ends its conflict with Ukraine and compensates for damages [3]. - Approximately €300 billion of Russian overseas assets have been frozen by Western countries since the escalation of the Ukraine crisis in February 2022, with the EU specifically freezing around €210 billion of the Russian central bank's assets [3]. - The indefinite freeze is seen as a measure to prevent the risk of "loosening" asset freezes due to differing opinions among EU member states, ensuring that funds remain securely locked for ongoing support to Ukraine [3][4]. Group 2: Financial Considerations - The EU's decision comes amid concerns over its financial capacity to support Ukraine, with indications that a budget shortfall for external financing could emerge as early as February 2026 [4]. - Freezing Russian assets is viewed as a strategic move to secure a negotiating position for the EU in future discussions regarding the Ukraine conflict [4]. Group 3: Reactions and Consequences - The decision has sparked significant controversy, with experts warning that it sets a dangerous precedent for the international financial system, potentially damaging the EU's credibility and financial ratings [5]. - The indefinite freeze may complicate negotiations between Russia and Ukraine, as it could provoke retaliatory financial and economic measures from Russia, increasing uncertainty in the peace efforts [5][6]. - Russian officials have condemned the EU's actions as violations of international law, with potential legal actions being initiated against the European Clearing Bank for damages related to the asset freeze [7].