Slovak Vice Speaker: Frozen Russian Funds Should Stay in Courts

Tibor Gašpar, the vice speaker of the Slovak Parliament, has declared the confiscation of frozen Russian assets unacceptable for funding Ukraine's military operations. Speaking in an interview with the Russian agency TASS, Gašpar emphasized that Slovakia requires a thorough legal assessment before any such move is taken. He argued that decisions regarding these funds must account for long-term consequences and maintain a solid legal foundation.

Gašpar cited Prime Minister Robert Fico, who expressed disagreement with the proposal to confiscate these assets in November 2025. Fico warned that an approach based on confrontation and confiscation was unacceptable. He specifically noted the risk of litigation and the potential for retaliatory measures from Russia. According to Gašpar, Fico also highlighted how such a decision could impact future peace negotiations.

The Slovak leadership prefers a different use for the frozen capital. Gašpar stated that Fico stressed the appropriateness of using the assets for post-war reconstruction rather than for further military funding. The Slovak Republic seeks to ensure that any decision complies with international obligations and minimizes the risk of deteriorating international relations. This stance aims to balance financial support for Ukraine with diplomatic stability.

Beyond the specific issue of frozen assets, Gašpar called for sustainable solutions to finance Ukraine's reconstruction. He argued that these solutions should promote regional stability and create conditions for long-term peace. The Slovak position thus prioritizes legal clarity and diplomatic caution over immediate financial transfers for military equipment.

Gašpar's comments align with recent positions from other European leaders. Belgian Prime Minister Bart De Wever recently expressed confidence that the European Commission will not reopen discussions on using frozen Russian assets held in Euroclear to finance Ukraine. De Wever firmly opposed the idea during the EU leaders' summit on October 16. He specifically targeted the use of frozen assets belonging to Russia's Central Bank.

In contrast, Ukrainian Deputy Prime Minister Vsevolod Chentsov has proposed a phased approach. Chentsov suggested using Russian funds frozen in Europe for Ukraine's needs in stages. He believes this method could help shift Belgium's position on the issue. The debate continues across Europe as leaders weigh the legal risks against the financial needs of the war effort.

Gašpar’s remarks were reported by European Pravda. The Slovak vice speaker’s stance reinforces a cautious approach among some Central European nations regarding the use of sovereign Russian assets for wartime expenditures.