Australian Luminaries Call for Seizing Russian Assets to Aid Ukraine

April 8, 2024
Australian Luminaries Call for Seizing Russian Assets to Aid Ukraine
  • A coalition of influential Australians is pressing their government to repurpose frozen Russian assets for aiding Ukraine.

  • These assets have been held since Australia sanctioned Russian oligarchs and Putin's allies, with a potential to significantly impact Ukraine's post-war recovery.

  • The group suggests Australia should align with other nations to explore legal avenues for utilizing Russian sovereign assets to Ukraine's advantage.

  • There is currently no legal framework in Australia for the confiscation of frozen assets.

  • Over 40 Russian oligarchs have had approximately $9 billion in assets frozen in Australia, far exceeding the country's financial aid to Ukraine.

  • A recent UN-backed study estimates Ukraine's reconstruction costs at $US486 billion, while Australia's contribution is only 0.04% of its GDP.

  • The Australian group calls for increased support to demonstrate a stronger commitment to Ukraine and adherence to international law.

  • While the US and UK are urging G7 countries to seize Russian central bank assets, there is hesitance and legal reservations among some European nations.

  • The Australian government aims to support Ukraine's efforts to conclude the war on its own terms by continuing targeted assistance and imposing costs on Russia.

Summary based on 4 sources


Get a daily email with more World News stories

More Stories