Ursula von der Leyen, head of the European Commission, said on Wednesday that the European Union would impose new sanctions on Russia, probably on gas and oil.

"At this critical time in the war, we need to increase pressure on Putin again," von der Leyen was quoted as saying in the European Parliament.

The statements come after the European Union announced that a fifth package of sanctions would be imposed, including an embargo on Russian coal, a ban on ships in EU ports, and sanctions on banks. "It simply came to our notice then. As I said yesterday, we have banned coal, but now we have to look at oil, "she said.

Ursula von der Leyen said the EU needs to look at Russia's fossil fuel revenues and added that "our sanctions are relevant because they affect Russia more strongly than our words."

He also said that more than 40 states had so far taken sanctions against Russia and that other countries were expected not to obstruct the measures. "It is crucial for China and the rest of the world to have a position on war. As a member of the Security Council, China has an obligation not to remain neutral, "Von der Leyen said.

"The United States supplies at least 15 million cubic meters of liquefied gas to replace gas in Russia. We also aim to have 50 million cubic meters a year to replace a third of the gas coming from Russia, "said the EU chief executive.

Oil and gas measures will be needed

Ursula von der Leyen's remarks were echoed by European Council President Charles Michel in a tweet on Wednesday, saying that "EU measures on oil and even gas will be needed sooner or later,"

The European Union will have to impose new sanctions on Russian oil and gas "sooner or later", European Council President Charles Michel said on Wednesday, denouncing "crimes against humanity" in Bucha and many other cities. "from Ukraine.

He also sent a message to Russian soldiers: "If you do not want to be part of the crimes against your Ukrainian brothers, give up the fight, lay down your arms. Some have suggested giving asylum to those Russian soldiers who no longer carry out orders. I think it's a good idea, "said Michel.

Oil Russia-ukraine crisis Russian gas Sanctions Ukraine War