Scholz denies allegations of hindering the introduction of fresh EU sanctions against Russia.
Concurrently, it's crucial that products intended for delivery to South America, Asia, or Africa don't get rerouted to Russia unexpectedly, as Chancellor Scholz emphasized. He seems confident that a resolution will be found soon. "This isn't a major issue, but rather a practical concern," he stated.
The new round of sanctions includes a range of measures aimed at preventing sanctions evasion, plus potential limits on Russian liquid gas, although there's no outright import ban as the European Parliament suggested.
Initially, the EU aimed to implement the 14th set of sanctions against Russia since the onset of Russian aggression in Ukraine, following the G7 summit in Italy that concluded last week. However, this plan allegedly fell through due to German objections, as reported by EU diplomats.
German Chancellor Scholz dismissed media rumors suggesting Germany is becoming like Hungary due to its differing stance from other EU countries as "absolute bullshit" in an interview with Welt TV. "We are indeed seeking a resolution," Scholz underscored. The Hungarian government, led by right-nationalist Prime Minister Viktor Orban, is known for its pro-Russian leanings. Recently, Budapest blocked multi-billion EU aid for Ukraine's military support within the EU.
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- Despite the allegation of blockade against Russia, Olaf Scholz assured that the EU sanctions package against Russia will be implemented without hindrance.
- Scholz reiterated that it's essential to ensure that goods intended for Asia, South America, or Africa do not unexpectedly reach Russia.
- The EU sanctions package against Russia includes measures to prevent sanctions evasion and potential limits on Russian liquid gas but not a full import ban.
- The 14th set of EU sanctions against Russia was initially planned after the G7 summit, but reportedly, German objections led to its alleged failure.
- Scholz strongly rejected rumors suggesting a similarity between Germany and Hungary due to their differing EU positions, labeling it as "absolute bullshit."
- The SPD, a major German political party, and other EU countries are advocating for a firm stance against Russia, contrasting the pro-Russian leanings of the Hungarian government.