Ahead of the meeting of the European Council, Renew Europe repeats its call for a full EU embargo on Russian energy imports, in line with the resolution adopted by the European Parliament. We condemn the Hungarian Government's efforts to water down the European Commission's proposal for a ban on oil imports. To prevent a global food security crisis, we call for an international diplomatic effort to end Russia's blockade of the Black Sea, so Ukraine's economic sovereignty can be restored.
EU leaders should redouble efforts to advance common European defence capabilities and the move away from dependence on fossil fuels, by delivering on the green transition.
Stéphane Séjourné, President of Renew Europe, said:
"Europe's reaction to the invasion of Ukraine has shown we are strongest when we are united. We must deliver stronger sanctions against Russia, invest in the green transition and ensure our energy sovereignty. Mr Orbán's weaponisation of his veto shows again why we need institutional reform so our Union is capable to act more efficiently in the uncertain world we see before us."
Commenting on the risks of a global food crisis, Stéphane Séjourné said;
"Ukraine's economic sovereignty must be restored to avoid global food shortages; we call on Russia to reopen access to the Black Sea unconditionally. It's time for the international community to speak with one voice on food security, as we face a global challenge that will hit the most vulnerable disproportionately. We welcome steps by the European Commission to assist Ukraine's efforts to export agricultural goods."
Commenting on the discussions planned on European Defence, Stéphane Séjourné said: "A Europe that protects is a Europe that invests in the common security of its citizens. It is time to move from words to actions. We need a major step forward on European defence."