Zelensky at Doha Forum: Increase energy production to stop Russian blackmail

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Saturday called on energy-producing countries to increase production so that Russia could not use its oil and gas wealth to “blackmail” other countries, Reuters reported.

Speaking at the Doha Forum international conference via video link, Zelensky said countries like Qatar could help stabilize Europe.

“They can do a lot to restore justice. The future of Europe depends on your efforts. I ask you to increase energy production to ensure that everyone in Russia understands that no country can use energy as a weapon and blackmail.” the world, “he said in translated comments.

Russia’s month-long invasion of Ukraine, Europe’s top gas supplier, has heightened concerns about disrupted energy supplies and increased control of European Union countries’ dependence on imported fossil fuels.

Zelensky also said that no country is safe from shocks from food disruptions caused by the Russian invasion of his country. Ukraine is one of the largest producers of cereals in the world.

“Global markets have not yet recovered from the effects of the pandemic, from the turmoil in food prices. No one is insured against these shocks and you can not be insured if there is a natural shortage of food,” he said.

“Russian troops are covering fields in Ukraine for miles, blowing up agricultural equipment.”

Source: Capital

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