EP Demands For Immediate Embargo On Importation Of Russian Energy Sources

The European Parliament voted for an immediate and full embargo on Russian imports of oil, gas, coal and nuclear energy in light of the war crimes being perpetrated by Russia in Ukraine.

In a resolution adopted on Thursday MEPs called for additional punitive measures, including “an immediate full embargo on Russian imports of oil, coal, nuclear fuel and gas”.

The resolution went through with an overwhelming majority of 513 votes to 22 and 19 abstentions.

According to EPP Vice President Siegfried Muresan, the EU pays Russia up to €800 million a day for the supply of fossil fuels – almost €300 billion a year.

The Parliament also demands that this should be accompanied by a plan to ensure the EU’s security of energy supply, as well as a strategy to decrease sanctions if Russia “takes steps towards restoring Ukraine’s independence, sovereignty, territorial integrity within its internationally recognised borders and completely remove its troops from Ukraine”.

MEPs insist that existing sanctions must be fully and effectively implemented throughout the EU and by the EU’s allies as a matter of priority.