In essence, EU countries would lend Ukraine around 140 billion euros ($165 billion). Kyiv would only refund the money once Russia pays significant war reparations to Ukraine for the massive destruction its war has caused. Should Moscow refuse, the assets would remain frozen.

President Putin said on Thursday that Russia will respond swiftly if it thinks Europe is provoking it and said that almost all of the U.S.-led NATO alliance was now fighting against Russia over Ukraine.

President Vladimir Putin said on Thursday that Russia will respond swiftly if it thinks Europe is provoking it and said that almost all of the U.S.-led NATO alliance was now fighting against Russia over Ukraine.

Europe sends billions in frozen Russian assets to Kyiv as Moscow threatens response - Russia blames Ukraine for the damage as the UN atomic watchdog has repeatedly warned of the possibility of a radia

France, Germany and Sweden said they will send military personnel and anti-drone systems to Denmark to boost security at this week’s European summits in Copenhagen.

Russian President Vladimir Putin spoke on Thursday at the Valdai Discussion Club, a forum of Russia experts, in the city of Sochi. He spoke in Russian, and his words are translated by Reuters. Read more at straitstimes.

Some European countries have raised concerns about potential legal challenges to the ‘reparations plan’ for Ukraine.

SOCHI, Russia - Russian President Vladimir Putin spoke on Thursday at the Valdai Discussion Club, a forum of Russia experts, in the city of Sochi. He spoke in Russian, and his words are translated by Reuters.

French President Emmanuel Macron says Europe must take a tougher approach on Russia by shooting down drones the violate European airspace and boarding Moscow's shadow fleet ships.