Russia Slams UK’s Use of Frozen Assets for Ukraine Arms, Warns of Retaliation Over 'Criminal Seizure'
Russia has sharply condemned the United Kingdom’s use of proceeds from frozen Russian state assets to fund military aid to Ukraine, calling the move illegal and warning of retaliatory measures.
In a strongly worded statement issued by the Russian embassy in London, Moscow accused the UK government of engaging in “criminal seizure” of foreign property. The statement followed remarks by UK Defence Secretary John Healey on September 3, confirming that Kyiv has already used £1 billion worth of UK-backed funds to purchase military equipment and weapons.
 |
| File Photo Source: Russian Embassy in India |
The embassy warned that these actions could seriously damage London’s global credibility and deter foreign investors. “The criminal seizure of foreign property and its use in geopolitical adventures further undermines London’s international reputation,” the statement added.
❗️ The British government needs to understand: any unfriendly actions against Russia and its legitimate interests will not go unanswered.https://t.co/TmWW5rV3Jx pic.twitter.com/skjY0DTqY8
— Russian Embassy, UK (@RussianEmbassy) September 6, 2025
Moscow went further, accusing Britain of returning to its “colonial” instincts. “We are not surprised by the continuation of the tradition of blatant theft on the international stage. This has been Britain’s calling card since colonial times,” the embassy said, asserting that the use of seized assets to fund weapons would “increase civilian casualties,” “lead to further destruction,” and “prolong the conflict.”
In October 2024, the UK government announced a £2.26 billion loan to Ukraine backed by proceeds from frozen Russian assets. Two-thirds of that amount has been disbursed so far, with the remainder expected next year. UK officials have defended the program as part of London’s ongoing commitment to Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
Russia’s warning comes amid renewed diplomatic activity between London and Kyiv. On a separate note, the UK’s newly appointed Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper made an official call to Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha, stating “unwavering” British support.
The Russian embassy dismissed UK efforts to avoid spending taxpayer money directly on Ukraine by using seized funds, calling it a “bad idea” and warning that “any unfriendly steps against Russia and its legitimate interests will not go unanswered.”
While Western allies, including the U.S. and EU, have debated how to lawfully redirect proceeds from frozen Russian assets to Ukraine, legal experts have noted that permanent seizure could face international legal challenges, particularly under property protections in international law.
Also Read:
UK's New Foreign Secretary Calls Ukraine Hours After Appointment, Expresses Unwavering Support