German minister says EU unity on Russian sanctions ‘beginning to break down’

Plastic letters arranged to read “sanctions” are placed in front of the colors of the EU and Russia flag in this illustration taken on February 28, 2022. REUTERS/Dado Rovich/Illustration/File Photo

BERLIN (Reuters) – German Economy Minister Robert Habeck expressed fears on Sunday that the European Union’s unity was “starting to collapse” ahead of a summit to discuss an oil embargo on Russia and plans to reduce dependence on Russian energy.

European Union leaders will meet on Monday and Tuesday to discuss a new sanctions package against Russia, which may also include an oil embargo, and a program aimed at accelerating the end of dependence on fossil fuels, including Russian gas.

“After Russia’s attack on Ukraine we saw what can happen when Europe stands united. Looking at the summit tomorrow, let’s hope it continues like this. But it has already started to crumble and collapse again,” Habek told a news conference.

European countries scrambled on Friday to reach a deal to ban Russian oil shipments by sea but allow pipeline deliveries, a compromise to win Hungary and lift new sanctions against Moscow. Read more

Habeck called on Germany to speak with one voice at the summit instead of abstaining due to differences of opinion within the country’s ruling coalition. He called for similar unity from other EU countries.

“Europe is still a huge economic region with incredible economic power. And when it stands united, it can use that power,” Habeck said at the opening of the German Hannover Trade Fair.

(Zuzana Szymanska reports). Editing by Jane Merriman

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