300 billion: US officials are pushing allies to put their frozen Russian reserves toward helping Ukraine. Western governments have an estimated $300 billion of frozen Kremlin reserves across a multitude of bank accounts, but most of them are in Europe, where central bankers have expressed fears that seizing the money could pose major legal and financial risks. But with Republicans pushing to limit Ukraine aid, the US is looking for alternatives.
6 billion: Speaking of frozen assets … The US and Qatari governments have taken back their agreement to unfreeze $6 billion of Iranian assets for humanitarian aid because of Iran’s backing of Hamas. The agreement was a part of a deal to free detained Americans, and the Biden administration has faced unfounded allegations that the funds could have fueled the attacks. As of now, Washington sees no evidence that Iran was directly involved in the attacks, but Tehran has supported the terrorist organization with weapons and training.
60: King Charles announced he will visit Kenya this month to commemorate the 60th anniversary of its independence from Great Britain and to acknowledge the painful history of British colonial rule. The state visit comes at the invitation of Kenya’s President William Ruto and will be Charles’ first visit to a commonwealth country since he became king.
100: France, home to Europe’s largest Jewish population and second-largest Muslim one, banned all pro-Palestinian demonstrations after recording 100 antisemitic acts since Saturday. Ten French citizens died in the Hamas attack, and 17 others are missing, including four children. Security has also been put in place around the homes of French Jewish politicians to deter attacks.
