In addition to the sanctions imposed on Russia due to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, developments in oil and natural gas are followed with interest by the whole world. While wondering how the European Union will take a stand after the latest developments, a remarkable statement came from the EU. President of the European Union (EU) Council Charles Michel, after visiting the city of Borodyanka, where control was restored in Ukraine, met with President of Ukraine Vladimir Zelenskiy and held a joint press conference.
“ALL OF THESE ARE CRIMES, THEY WILL BE PUNISHED”
“These are brutalities. These are all crimes. They must be punished. They will be punished.” Michel said that they are determined to do everything they can to support Ukraine because they want Ukraine’s victory.
Emphasizing that the EU has promised to stand by Ukraine, Michel said, “We have taken many concrete measures so far. This is not enough and that’s why we are constantly working to increase the pressure on Russia.” he said.
UKRAINE’S EU MEMBERSHIP
Regarding Ukraine’s EU membership, Michel stated that “it is not a secret” that there are different opinions about the membership process within the EU, and underlined that this is a legal and also a political process.
Stating that the EU Commission should announce its opinion at the end of June, Michel said that he will start the evaluation process as soon as this happens.
OIL AND NATURAL GAS EMBARGO TO RUSSIA
On the oil and gas embargo on Russia, Michel noted that he was “personally confident that it will be decided sooner or later because the EU is determined to stop its energy dependence on Russia.” (AA)