Ripple's CTO Emeritus, David Schwartz, confirmed that valid XRP transactions cannot be blocked, emphasizing the decentralized nature of the XRP Ledger (XRPL). Schwartz clarified that XRPL relies on decentralized validators and consensus, not corporate control, ensuring that transactions are processed according to network rules. He stated that even a majority of validators cannot fabricate XRP, seize funds, or censor transactions, maintaining protocol-driven operations. Schwartz explained that XRPL transaction finality is guaranteed by code and consensus, with no single party able to reverse or freeze valid transactions. He also detailed the mechanics of XRP escrow, where funds are automatically released once conditions are met, without discretionary power from Ripple or any central authority. Addressing centralization concerns, Schwartz dismissed claims of potential institutional control via Ripple’s Unique Node List as unfounded, reinforcing the decentralized nature of XRPL operations. The clarification comes as XRPL prepares for a March Devnet reboot, signaling ongoing protocol upgrades. Despite scrutiny over Ripple's involvement, Schwartz reiterated that network operations are governed by decentralized rules, ensuring the immutability of valid XRP transactions.