Crossword Genius

Claims Republican seizes belongings? On the contrary (7)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

asserts

I'm a little stuck... Click here to teach me more about this clue!

'claims' is the definition.
The definition and answer can be both to do with communicating as well as being verbs in their -s form.
Maybe they are linked in a way I don't understand?

I cannot understand how the rest of the clue works.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for asserts that I've seen before include "Declares to be true" , "States firmly" , "States categorically" , "States confidently and forcefully" .)

I've seen this clue in The Independent.
Want a hint initially instead of a full solution? Install my app