The EU will allow Ukraine to buy weapons with Russian money

New defence mechanism from the European Commission

The European Commission is developing a new financial mechanism, which will allow Ukraine to access part of the proceeds of frozen Russian assets - in total, about €140 billion.
According to the agency Reuters, Brussels wants to create a “Reparations Loan” - a special compensation fund that will finance Defence procurement and reconstruction.

Weapons can be purchased outside the EU

According to the document currently under consideration by the European Commission, Ukraine will be able to purchase weapons not only from EU manufacturers, but also in partners outside the European Union - For example, in the US, UK or Canada.
This should ensure flexibility and speed supplying the necessary weapons, especially high-tech systems that the EU lacks.

«Ukraine has the right to use the proceeds of confiscated assets for its own defence, regardless of the country of the supplier,» the document cited by Reuters said.

Control and transparency

The fund is expected to be managed by The European Commission, together with the European External Action Service, and cost control will be ensured by through EU audit mechanisms.
The funding provides for long-term nature - The funds will be allocated in tranches, in sync with the needs of Ukraine's defence sector.

Context.

Previously. The European Union has agreed to use 90% of proceeds from Russian assets to support the Ukrainian Armed Forces. However, this new proposal could significantly expand Kyiv's arms procurement and preparation capabilities until 2026.

Analysts point out that such a move by the EU is actually recognises frozen assets of russia as a reparation fund and sets a precedent in international law.