Diplomats said European countries such as Slovakia and Hungary were opposed to the swift import ban, largely because of their heavy dependence on Russian oil supplies, according to the top ZDF. In some southern European countries, the expected rise in energy prices for consumers following an embargo has been met with serious concern. Earlier in the day, Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmitry Kuleba said he had told the top EU diplomat that the bloc’s next round of sanctions should include an oil embargo on Russia. He wrote on Twitter after his call with Josep Borrell: “I spoke with @JosepBorrellF about the next round of EU sanctions on Russia, which should include an oil embargo. The Ukrainian Foreign Minister added: “I also stressed that there is no alternative to granting Ukraine’s candidate status in the EU. “We paid special attention to the further safe evacuation from the besieged Mariupol.” The EU is now increasingly pushing for a ban on Russian oil imports by the end of the year, Reuters reported, citing two EU diplomats. Talks took place between the European Commission and EU Member States this weekend Brussels is drafting another package of sanctions against Russia in response to the invasion of Ukraine just over two months ago. The new round of measures is expected to target Russian oil, Russian and Belarusian banks, as well as more individuals and companies. The EU Commission has held so-called “confessional” talks with small groups of EU countries and is trying to complete the sanctions plan in time for a meeting of EU ambassadors in Brussels on Wednesday. EU energy ministers will also meet in the Belgian capital on Monday to discuss the issue. THIS IS AN AMAZING STORY. THE FOLLOWING MORE …
