Chancellor Merz Slams Russia's "Terror" on Civilians in Ukraine, Urges Tougher Sanctions
Russia allegedly perpetuates acts of aggression against Ukrainian civilians
Hop on social media platforms; hit the share button; interact on messaging apps; shoot an email; print it out; copy the link Chancellor Friedrich Merz has passionately criticized Russia's barrage on civilian targets in Ukraine, echoing his plea for stronger EU and US sanctions against Russia. During a recent speech in Berlin, Merz stated, "Russia was plotting a massacre. The fact that they've only partly succeeded is solely due to Ukraine's heroic defense.
The ongoing, brutal Russian attacks on Kyiv and other cities, according to him, represent the most heinous war crimes, a vicious campaign of terror against the civilian population.
In light of these atrocities, Merz urges the EU, along with the US, to escalate the pressure on Russian President Vladimir Putin with new sanctions. He believes that the previous attacks have already battered the Russian economy, leaving the duration of Russia's warfare contingent on the potency of the sanctions.
The EU, following the suggestions from EU Commission President, Ursula von der Leyen, has proposed an 18th sanctions package targeting strategically crucial sectors. The proposals encompass:
1. Energy Sector: - Slashing the oil price cap from $60 to $45 per barrel aims to erode Russia's oil income, already weakened by previous sanctions[2][3]. - Strengthening the ban on Russian infrastructure, such as the Nord Stream pipelines, aims to phase out European dependency on Russian energy[2].
2. Banking Sector: - Expanding restrictions on Russian banks by converting the existing SWIFT system ban into a complete transaction ban impacts 22 additional banks, hampering their fund-raising and transaction capabilities[1][3]. - Extending transaction bans to financial intermediaries in third countries circumventing sanctions, funding trade with Russia[1].
3. Export Restrictions: - Imposing export restrictions worth over €2.5 billion on machinery, metals, plastics, and chemicals vital for Russia's industrial sector[1]. - Banning the export of dual-use goods and technologies used in producing drones, missiles, and other weapon systems[1].
4. Enhanced Enforcement: - Listing companies offering support to Russia's military and industrial complex, underscoring the role of third countries in sustaining Russia's war efforts[1].
These measures aim to cripple Russia's ability to finance and sustain the conflict, as well as to compel Russia to halt its aggression against Ukraine. The EU is steadfast in demanding a complete, unconditional ceasefire and meaningful peace negotiations.[1][2]
Despite Merz's support for the proposed sanctions, more details on his specific opinions and expectations remain unavailable." "The sooner the sanctions bite, the sooner there's hope for an end to the war," Merz concludes."
Engage in discussions on various social media platforms, share the news and express your views on Chancellor Merz's stance, particularly regarding the proposed sanctions on Russia's energy, banking, and export sectors in an effort to end the ongoing war in Ukraine. Stay updated with general news, politics, crime-and-justice, and community policy, as this situation unfurls amidst the backdrop of war-and-conflicts.
