A Finnish court has ordered the seizure of Russian assets in Finland worth tens of billions of euros after Russia failed to pay €4.6bn in compensation to Ukraine’s Naftogaz Group. The ruling follows a 2023 decision by The Hague ordering Russia to pay the compensation after illegally seizing Naftogaz’s assets during the 2014 occupation of Crimea.
Naftogaz’s Chairman and CEO, Oleksiy Chernyshov, stated that they are using all available mechanisms to recover the funds and are one step closer to restoring justice. The properties seized include the Russian Centre of Science and Culture in Helsinki and four others in the Åland Islands, as well as a seaside site in Kirkkonummi used by Russian diplomats.
The Kremlin has announced plans to challenge the court’s ruling, with spokesman Dmitry Peskov stating that Russia will defend its property interests using all legal avenues. Naftogaz emphasized that any remaining interest on Russia’s obligations will continue to accrue until full payment is received.
The Finnish court’s decision highlights the ongoing legal battle between Russia and Ukraine over the occupation of Crimea and the subsequent seizure of assets. This ruling serves as a significant step in Naftogaz’s efforts to obtain the compensation awarded by The Hague and showcases the company’s commitment to reclaiming what is rightfully theirs.
Source
Photo credit www.euronews.com