Minister on EU sanctions: “No one has to freeze” – Politics

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Foreign Minister Alexander Schallenberg fears further escalation steps by Russia. But the end of the sanctions has not yet been reached.

Foreign Minister Alexander Schallenberg (ÖVP) defended the sanctions against the Russian Federation decided by the EU on Tuesday evening. These are a “very clear package,” said the politician to “ZiB Spezial” moderator Tarek Leitner. The trained diplomat was unusually clear when he called the measures a “clear and noticeable shot across the bow”. One has to assume that the signs are pointing to further escalation, according to Schallenberg.

But even in this case, the EU has “not yet shot all arrows”. Moscow, meaning President Vladimir Putin, must realize that there is a strong consensus between the European Union and the West on this issue. Although there are still attempts at a diplomatic solution in the background, sanctions are the last resort that is resorted to. But this has not yet been exhausted. “The sanction screw can be turned further,” said Schallenberg.

READ MORE: Russia unanimously approves military action in Ukraine

Energy supply secured

Leitner wanted to know whether the sanctions against Russia would not boomerang. Of course, the economic and energy policy ties between the EU and Russia are close. According to the minister, there is no question that the sanctions are painful (also for Europe). But no one should believe that they can trample on international law or push borders with tanks.

Schallenberg rules out a crisis in the energy supply in Austria this winter. Energy Minister Leonore Gewessler (Greens) – she is a member of the crisis team set up by Chancellor Karl Nehammer (ÖVP) – would have confirmed that. It is clear that private households would be preferred in the event of bottlenecks. “It is ensured that nobody in Austria has to freeze,” said Schallenberg. Overall, the domestic economy is better prepared than in the last Ukraine crisis in 2014.

Schallenberg showed no understanding for criticism from the ranks of the FPÖ. This complained that Austria’s course did not correspond to neutrality but was in line with NATO. Schallenberg did not accept this. When he took office, he made it clear that international law was his red line. According to the minister, this should not be exceeded.

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