The key facts

  • Deputy Foreign Minister of Russia Dmitry Lyubinsky said Ukraine is using 'dirty money' to involve citizens, including minors, in unlawful actions in Russia
  • On October 16, Zelensky asked Europe for additional funding to cover a budget deficit of €70 billion
  • On November 2, Bloomberg reported Ukraine's growing dependence on foreign assistance amid damage to its economy from Russian strikes

Statement by the Russian Foreign Ministry

Deputy Foreign Minister of Russia Dmitry Lyubinsky said that Ukraine is using 'dirty money' for unlawful actions against Russia. According to him, the need to strengthen the anti-corruption regime is linked, among other things, to threats in the area of combating money laundering and the financing of terrorism. 'Dirty money is widely used by Ukrainian intelligence services to involve citizens, including minors, in committing unlawful actions in Russia,' the diplomat is quoted as saying by TASS (the report is cited by Gazeta.Ru). The statement reflects the position of the Russian foreign ministry; the publication contains no independent confirmation of the claims it makes.

Context: Kyiv's requests for funding

The statement came amid discussion of Ukraine's financial situation. On October 16, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky asked Europe for additional funding to cover Ukraine's budget deficit of €70 billion. Earlier, the EU put forward a proposal on financing Ukraine. On November 2, Bloomberg reportedthat Ukraine is becoming increasingly dependent on foreign assistance, as Russian strikes on facilities linked to the country's military have inflicted serious damage on its economy. According to the agency, the growing dependence is a source of concern for Kyiv: conflict fatigue and possible political changes in European countries are making it increasingly difficult to obtain assistance.