On the table sanctions, embargo on Russia

The EU Energy Council is meeting in Brussels today on the new, sixth package of sanctions against Russia. Tomorrow in Strasbourg the final proposal of the Commission.

Political debate ahead of tomorrow’s European Commission proposal to impose a new, sixth package of sanctions against Russia, which will include a phasing out of Russian oil imports, will be held this afternoon in Brussels by its energy ministers. EU.

The meeting was convened by the French presidency, following Moscow’s decision to cut off gas supplies to Poland and Bulgaria.

Today’s debate is important because it will allow the Commission to formulate the proposal which it will adopt at its regular weekly meeting tomorrow at noon in Strasbourg on the sidelines of the European Parliament plenary.

The consultations held over the weekend between the Commission and the Permanent Representatives of the Member States indicate that an agreement could be reached on a phasing-out of Russian oil imports by the end of the year.

Europeans are less divided now

This is an important development, because until a few days ago the issue was dividing Europeans, due to the great dependence of some countries on Russian oil.

The sixth package of sanctions, in addition to oil, will provide for other sanctions against banks in Russia and Belarus, as well as against companies and individuals from these countries.

The energy ministers will also take stock today of possible additional actions related to security of supply and transit of gas, as well as inventory management in the coming months.

Finally, they will discuss the level of preparedness in the event of a supply crisis and possible emergency and solidarity measures, if needed.

Nikos Bellos, Brussels

Source: Deutsche Welle