Finalization of the oil embargo
The ministers also had an exchange on a gradual cessation of purchases of Russian oil and petroleum products planned by the EU in order to dry up European funding for the war led by the Kremlin in Ukraine. But no decision has been made.
“A new sanctions package is in the works, but that was not the subject of the meeting“, said Barbara Pompili.
“We are working on a new sanctions package“, confirmed Commissioner Simson.
“A meeting of the college (all the commissioners, editor’s note) will be held on Tuesday in Strasbourg“, on the sidelines of the session of Parliament, “and President Ursula von der Leyen will clarify what has been decided“, she indicated.
I believe that the Commission will propose a sixth package of sanctions
The proposal is “finalized and will be adopted by the Commission on Tuesday“, told AFP a European source.
“I believe that the Commission will propose tomorrow (Tuesday) a 6th sanctions package, including the withdrawal of Russian oil“said German Minister Robert Habeck.
The proposal will be submitted to Member States for adoption on Wednesday. “I don’t know if it will be possible by the weekend“, however, indicated the German minister.
If the 27 agree on this measure, the cessation of purchases of oil and petroleum products from Russia will be gradual, over six to eight months, but with measures with immediate effect, in particular a tax on transport by tankers, said a European official.
The EU has already imposed an embargo on Russian coal and closed its ports to Russian ships, except for transporting hydrocarbons.
The main importers of fossil fuels from Russia (gas, crude oil, petroleum products and coal) are Germany, Italy, the Netherlands and France.