Germany and France reject Russia’s demand that European countries pay in rubles for Russian gas that this claim amounts to an unacceptable breach of contract and “blackmail”.
In a press conference he gave in Berlin with his French counterpart, German Economy Minister Robert Habeck He said he had not yet seen the new decree signed by Russian President Vladimir Putin and imposing gas payments in rubles, adding that Germany was ready for all scenarios, including the cessation of Russian gas flows to Europe.
French Minister Bruno Lemerre He said France and Germany were rejecting Russia’s request.
Russia’s attempt to divide the Western allies by demanding payments for gas in rubles has failed, Habeck said, adding that the Western allies are determined not to be “blackmailed” by Russia.
“It’s important for us not to send the message that we are going to let Putin blackmail us.”, stressed the Minister of Economy and Climate Policy Robert Habek and assured that Germany is “well prepared for anything that may decide” the Russian president. He described the observance of the contracts, which provide for payment of gas deliveries in euros or dollars, as “critical”. “We all agree on that,” he said.
However, the supply of gas is stable, said Mr. Habeck during a press conference he gave jointly with his French counterpart Bruno Le Mer, adding that during the night the gas storage levels increased further. For his part, Mr. Le Mer also stressed the importance of the validity of agreements concluded with Russian companies. “There are contracts and contracts must be fully respected and respected”pointed out and left all possibilities open for the near future, as, as he said, at the moment all possible scenarios are being considered. “It is possible that at some point there will be no more Russian gas“but we will also prepare for such a scenario”, he said characteristically and described the situation that has formed as a “barbaric energy shock”.
The two ministers also stated that they are in close cooperation, while special crisis management groups have been set up in their ministries. “It is important that we continue to coordinate with our partners and show unity. “We are in daily consultation,” said Robert Hubeck – also on work to build a common hydrogen network in Europe. “Europe’s energy supply must be adequate for the future,” he said, referring to sanctions against Russia. ” “Putin to continue this barbaric war.”
According to Mr. Le Mer, France and Germany are equally determined to protect households and businesses and referred to measures taken to reduce the price of fuel – and to curb inflation. On the other hand, Mr. Habeck assured that the current challenge does not threaten Germany’s goal of climate neutrality by 2045, but he was wary of a food crisis in the next two years, perhaps not in Germany and France. clarified, but certainly in the poorest countries. “This will be a very serious problem, on which social peace will ultimately depend,” he said.
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