On Friday, December 12, 2025, Russia's central bank said that the EU's plans to tap into its frozen assets are illegal—a move that ramps up tensions between Moscow and Brussels 🔥.
In a statement, the bank claimed it "reserves the right to employ all available means" to protect its interests. That's some serious ⚖️ energy!
At the same time, the central bank announced it is suing Euroclear—a Brussels-based financial institution that holds many of those assets—in a Moscow court. According to the suit, Euroclear's actions have hurt the bank's ability to manage its funds and securities.
"Mechanisms of direct or indirect use of the assets of the Bank of Russia … are illegal and contrary to international law, including principles of sovereign immunity of assets," the statement said.
So far, Euroclear, the Belgian government and the European Commission have stayed silent. 🤫
What's next? Legal showdown in Moscow and maybe a diplomatic face-off in Brussels. Stay tuned for updates! 👀
Reference(s):
Russian central bank says EU plans to use its assets are illegal
cgtn.com
