The EU decided on new sanctions against Russia and economic aid for Ukraine. Among other things, the targets are individuals and communities responsible for civilian attacks.
16.12. 6:01 am•Updated 16.12. 7:54 am
BRUSSELS The EU countries have reached an agreement on the ninth set of sanctions against Russia. The ambassadors of the EU countries decided on the matter yesterday evening.
Sanctions are applied, among other things, to individuals and communities responsible for civilian attacks. The EU also expands sanctions against Russian banks and export products.
The EU leaders also gave their support to the 18 billion euro support package for Ukraine. Prime minister Sanna Marini (sd.) it was important that decisions on sanctions and financial aid were made unanimously.
– Europe does not show division here, but we remain united here. It’s hugely important.
A trade war with the USA must be avoided
The European Council also approved the conclusions related to energy and the economy. The conclusions emphasize the importance of green investments and an ambitious industrial policy.
EU leaders also discussed how Europe should respond to US business subsidies for green investments. The United States supports its own industry with a support package of around 400 billion.
The leaders are hoping for concrete presentations from the commission on how to respond to massive US business subsidies. According to Marin, there is a difficult training ahead.
– I personally have strong faith in the Commission’s ability to evaluate the best possible means by which we can ensure the operation of the internal market between the member countries and ensure that we do not drift into an unnecessary trade war with the United States.
The new fund spoke to managers
The Commission has floated the idea of a separate sovereign wealth fund that could be used to support European companies.
According to Marin, there was not a very deep discussion about the proposal.
– In my speech, I highlighted the fact that Finland is not ready for new instruments. We need to use existing funds as efficiently as possible.
According to Marin, Finland’s feedback has been forwarded to the commission. Marin emphasizes that Finland is not alone in its views.
The gas price cap continues
The EU leaders also discussed the high price of energy. The European Council emphasizes coordination between member countries and the need to invest in storage capacity.
It is hoped that next week’s Council of Ministers will agree on the price ceiling for gas. Energy issues speak nationally as well as Europe-wide.
– We see all over Europe that the price of energy causes trouble for ordinary citizens and companies. In Finland, solutions are now needed in this regard.
The year overshadowed by the war has been an example of European unity, says Marin.
– When Russia attacked Ukraine, we immediately imposed strong sanctions against Russia. We have been able to make very unified decisions, with some exceptions.
You can discuss the topic on 17.12. until 11 p.m.
Read more:
The crisis in Ukraine, the economy and the danger of a trade war overshadow the EU summit – Prime Minister Marin: Europe’s competitiveness must be taken care of
Von der Leyen: The EU should change the state aid rules due to the massive US climate package