Ursula von der Leyen on Nord Stream 2: We have a sanctions package. Putin thinks the West is bluffing

– The situation is very serious. We are doing everything in our power to hope to find a diplomatic solution. Of course, we must also be prepared that our efforts may fail. It is very clear that any further military escalation on the part of the party will have serious consequences, stressed the president of the European Commission in an interview with the French “Les Echos” and the German “”.

EU sanctions may hit Nord Stream 2 and Vladimir Putin

The head of the European Commission assured that the European Union is doing everything possible to prevent Russia’s aggression against Ukraine, but the Commission has already been entrusted with the task of developing economic and financial sanctions in cooperation with Member States and international partners.

“We have prepared a solid and comprehensive financial and economic package, ranging from restricting access to foreign capital to controlling exports, especially of technical goods,” said Ursula von der Leyen.

She added that the gas pipeline cannot be excluded from the list of potential sanctions against Russia. Whether the sanctions will include Nord Stream 2 and whether the gas pipeline will start operating “depends on Russia’s attitude”. The head of the European Commission made it clear that the sanctions could also apply to the immediate entourage of Vladimir Putin and the Russian oligarchs. – Everything in the hands of Russia. Let’s wait and see how the situation develops – she said.

Nord Stream 2 – more information about the gas pipeline can be found on the home page

On the energy issue, Ursula von der Leyen said Putin is aware that the EU needs gas. “He probably thinks the West is bluffing,” she said, pointing to the need to diversify energy sources.

On the criticism of Ukraine by former German Chancellor Gerhard Schröder, the head of the European Commission said that it is paid by Russian energy companies and represents their interests. – In Europe, everyone can freely express their opinion – she emphasized.

Great Britain warns Russia against sanctions. “There will be nowhere to hide”

Earlier, it also announced the imposition of sanctions on Russia. Foreign Minister Liz Truss announced on Monday in the House of Commons that the sanctions list could be extended under the new regulations, and the restrictions could also hit Russian oligarchs who do business in Great Britain.

– Regardless of whether you support Russia’s aggressive actions against Ukraine, or whether you are of significant importance to the Kremlin, we will be able to impose sanctions. Nothing is excluded and there will be nowhere to hide. It will be the strictest sanctions regime against Russia we have introduced so far and the biggest change in our approach since leaving the European Union.