Official: EU has no plans to embargo Russian gas so far

BRUSSELS/WASHINGTON, Apr 5 (PRIME) -- The E.U. has no plans to embargo Russian gas imports so far,  but the measure is on agenda and could be applied later, Commissioner for Economy Paolo Gentiloni said at a press conference late on Monday.

The Wall Street Journal reported that the E.U. would consider significant duties on imports of Russian oil and coal to force the countries to cut consumption.

The Economic and Financial Affairs Council (ECOFIN) will discuss the new sanctions on Russia on Tuesday, Paschal Donohoe, chairman of euro zone finance ministers, said.

U.S. National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan said that the U.S. could introduce new economic sanctions on Russia this week. Washington was coordinating the final layout of the new sanctions with its allies and partners. All measures, including in the energy sphere, are considered.

Canada blacklisted nine Russians and nine Belarusians whose names were not disclosed. Foreign Minister Melanie Joly pledged additional restrictions on Russia and Belarus.

Australia forbade imports of luxury items to Russia from Thursday, including jewelry, gold, wines, cars, fur and other types of goods.

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