MEPs adopts resolution for embargo on Russian imports of coal, oil, nuclear fuel and gas

MEPs have recently adopted a resolution on Thursday that called for “an immediate complete embargo on Russian imports of oil, coal, nuclear fuel as well as gas” in light of recently reported atrocities by the Russian armed forces in Ukraine.

The lawmakers are trying to increase the pressure on the European Commission and on member states to impose additional punitive measures as well as to curb their energy reliance on Russia. The proposal was adopted by a large majority, with 513 votes for, 22 against and 19 abstentions.

The Commission announced the fifth package of sanctions on Tuesday, which included a ban on coal, it didn’t go further as member states, such as Germany, are dependent on Russia for energy supplies.

On Thursday, MEPs adopted a resolution calling for the EU to go further in its sanctions against Russia following the atrocities uncovered in the towns around Kyiv and demanded increased military aid to support Ukraine.

In addition to a full oil and gas embargo, MEPs insisted that this should be accompanied by a plan to assure the EU’s security of energy supply.

Member states are set to discuss additional sanctions this week, yet the embargo may not be an easy sell. According to reports, Hungary’s re-elected Prime Minister Viktor Orbán drew a “red line” concerning oil and gas on Wednesday and said he would be blocking sanctions.