In an interview with Bloomberg TV, Whitaker emphasized that the European Union should deal with the frozen assets of the Russian central bank. According to him, their use could provide Ukraine with financial and military support for the next few years. He also noted that such a step would symbolize a more offensive attitude of Europe towards the Kremlin. “It's time to act boldly” – said the ambassador, calling for decisive action against Russian unpredictability.
The diplomat pointed out that it is Russia's unpredictability, not its military strength, that poses the greatest threat to NATO's security. He assured that the alliance will remain steadfast in defending every inch of its members' territory, emphasizing the common position of the US and European allies on this issue.
Read also: Donald Trump expressed support for sanctions against countries trading with Russia
US pressure on Russia. Republican senator reports
Bloomberg noted that the pressure from the US on Europe regarding the use of Kremlin assets is not surprising. However, Whitaker's statements seem to partially differ from the position of President Donald Trump, whose approach to Vladimir Putin has sometimes been ambiguous.
Meanwhile, Republican senator Lindsey Graham announced that the US Congress will start working on new sanctions against Russia, after Donald Trump agreed to adopt a bill on this matter. A day earlier, the US president stressed that he was not opposed to initiatives aimed at increasing pressure on Moscow.
Read also: Republican senator: Trump will 'crush' the Russian economy if Putin doesn't give up
