Fri May 09 17:58:06 UTC 2025: ## France to Use Frozen Russian Assets to Maintain Howitzers in Ukraine

**LVIV, UKRAINE (May 9, 2025)** – France will utilize the income generated from frozen Russian assets to maintain the Caesar howitzers it has supplied to Ukraine, French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot announced today. The announcement came during a meeting of EU foreign ministers in Lviv, where they also approved the establishment of a special tribunal to prosecute Russian leadership for the 2022 invasion.

The EU and G7 nations have frozen approximately €300 billion in Russian assets, including Central Bank reserves and private holdings. Minister Barrot stated that accessing the income from these frozen assets will ensure the ongoing maintenance of the crucial artillery pieces aiding Ukraine’s defense.

The EU also pledged an additional €1 billion to bolster Ukraine’s defense industry. The ministers’ meeting comes amidst escalating tensions, with Russia holding a large military parade in Moscow where President Vladimir Putin reiterated his commitment to victory. This, coupled with U.S. President Donald Trump’s threatened withdrawal of support, has prompted increased efforts by European leaders to fortify Ukraine’s position. EU countries are already using a portion of the frozen Russian assets, estimated at €2.5 to €3 billion annually, to arm Ukraine and support its post-war reconstruction. Minister Barrot emphasized the need for pressure on Putin to achieve a ceasefire, declaring that Moscow currently represents the sole obstacle to peace.

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