Lavrov points to deplorable situation in EU amid anti-Russian sanctions

The European Union (EU) is preparing new sanctions against Russia amid the difficult situation of its own economy. This was stated by Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov on February 12.

"The European Union <...> is already preparing the 16th package [of sanctions against Russia], and the economic results are deplorable," he said at a press conference after talks with Sudanese Foreign Minister Ali Yousef Sharif.

Lavrov emphasized the sharp rise in Russian gas prices in Europe. According to him, it was this resource that previously ensured the economic growth of EU countries, primarily Germany.

"They (sanctions. - Ed.) do not help anyone in the world to develop trade and economic ties," the minister emphasized.

Council right: Slovakia ready to block 16th sanctions package

Bratislava opposes restrictions on Russian gas imports

Earlier, on February 10, the head of the German party "Sarah Wagenknecht's Union - for Reason and Justice" (SSV) Sarah Wagenknecht said that anti-Russian sanctions are damaging the economy of Germany. Thus, according to her, the rise in gas prices provoked the rise in the price of products and a decrease in the competitiveness of German companies.

On the same day it was reported that the permanent representatives of the EU member states plan to finalize the agreement of the 16th package of sanctions against Russia at meetings on Wednesday, February 12, and Friday, February 14. The EU plans to impose restrictions on exports of Russian aluminum and LNG against Russia as part of the 16th package of sanctions was reported on January 15.

January 27, EU diplomatic chief Kaja Kallas officially confirmed the agreement to extend anti-Russian sanctions for six months. It was specified that the restrictions will come into force on February 22. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov, in turn, said that there are no innovations in the EU's extension of illegal anti-Russian sanctions for six months.

Western countries have increased sanctions pressure on Russia after the start of the special operation to protect civilians in Donbass, which was announced on February 24, 2022.