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Added on the 04/04/2022 15:48:42 - Copyright : AFPTV - First images
The German government has activated its emergency plan for gas supplies, as fears rise that Russia could cut off the flow of gas to Europe. The early warning, announced by economy minister Robert Habeck, is the first of three stages in Berlin's emergency plan, aimed at securing supplies. The move comes as Moscow insists it be paid in roubles for Russian gas. Also today, we report on how the sanctions on Russia are affecting the diamond trade in Antwerp.
EU ministers debated Tuesday how to reduce gas consumption this winter, an act of solidarity for Germany and a response to Russia's manipulation of supplies as an economic weapon. FRANCE 24's Dave Keating reports from Brussels.
Diplomats say the EU is edging towards a ban on Russian oil imports by the end of 2022. A crisis meeting in Brussels is also seeking unity against Moscow's demand for gas payments in roubles.
"It's a power play": Germany not impressed by Russia's politcal shouldering over gas
European Union governments agreed Tuesday to ration natural gas this winter to protect themselves against any further supply cuts by Russia as Moscow pursues its invasion of Ukraine. EU energy ministers approved a draft European law meant to lower demand for gas by 15% from August through March.
President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen warns that "Russia is blackmailing" EU member states and "using energy as a weapon." Russian President Vladimir Putin has played hot and cold in recent days with his threats to cut off gas deliveries to the bloc of 27 members, but Brussels is asking EU countries to prepare for the worst. SOUNDBITE
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