European Council President Charles Michel said on Monday he was confident of an agreement between European Union (EU) leaders on a Russian oil embargo, which includes exceptions, and acknowledged “difficult discussions” over Russia’s energy dependency. .
The sixth package of sanctions has been on the table for many weeks and it is important to decide and the time to do so is now. I am sure that we will be able to come to a decision together and once again express a united position on this important issue, [mas] it is not easy because there are different sensitivities”, said Charles Michel.
Speaking at the entrance of the extraordinary European Council, which takes place on Monday and Tuesday in Brussels, the official highlighted the “progress made in recent hours on the subject”, reinforcing the hope that The heads of government and state of the EU “can make the decision on an important issue”.
“We want to support Ukrainewe want to mobilize funds for Ukraine, provide liquidity, start the reconstruction of the country and support them, this is an important first element, and we would also like to move forward with sanctions,” said Charles Michel.
At a time when the EU has not yet managed to reach a consensus to advance the gradual and progressive embargo on Russian oil, as proposed by the European Commission almost a month ago, the issue is on the agenda of European leaders, The measure is now expected to cover two-thirds of European oil imports from Russiathat is, all maritime oil from Russia.
In the face of criticism from countries more dependent on Russian oil, such as Hungary, temporary exceptions are also planned to guarantee the security of supply to certain Member States.
However, upon arrival at the summit, Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán denied the existence of a political compromise and accused the European Commission of having “irresponsible behavior” towards Hungary.
Hungary rejects EU ban on Russian oil
The war in Ukraine has exposed the EU’s excessive energy dependence on Russia, which is responsible for around 45% of European gas imports. Russia also supplies 25% of the oil and 45% of the coal imported by the EU.
Right at the beginning of this summit, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky will speak by videoconference, who last week deplored the “lack of unity” among the 27 on the strengthening of sanctions on Russia.
Russia invaded Ukraine on February 24, drawing condemnation from the international community at large, namely the EU, which has already adopted five sanctions packages against Moscow and is trying to reach an agreement on the sixth.
Source: Observadora
