The introduction of restrictions on Russian oil would be a major step in the West’s response to Moscow over the invasion of Ukraine. It also marks the arrival of the White House, which has rejected a bilateral call to ban Russian oil imports to the United States, arguing that the embargo will restrict global supply and raise consumer prices.
On Sunday, Blinken told CNN that RHe has already spoken with US President Joe Biden and his cabinet about such a move.
– Oil, as in Russian oil, I spoke on the phone exactly yesterday with the President and other cabinet members on this matter. We are now in talks with our European partners and allies to coordinate the possibility of a embargo on Russian oil imports, while ensuring that there is still adequate oil supply in world markets, Blinken told CNN.
What does Congress say?
White House spokeswoman Jen Zhaki said on Friday that Plinkon’s remarks came as President Biden said he was considering steps to reduce US imports of Russian oil. However, he stressed that the US administration is “focused on reducing the impact of this measure on families”.
Pressure is mounting on Capital to ban Russian oil imports. Nancy Pelosi, Speaker of the House of Representatives, supported the move on Thursday.
When asked about a possible ban on Russian oil imports, Blinken said he had talked to the president and cabinet about a possible move and was in talks with European partners and allies.
The war is gaining momentum
Sunday marks the 11th day of Russia’s occupation of Ukraine. Russian forces continue to attack populated areas and civilian infrastructure in Ukraine. Attempts to evacuate 200,000 people from the besieged port city of Mariupol have failed, leaving people without access to water, food and heat.
In Irbin, west of Kiev, Russian forces reportedly opened fire on people leaving the city, killing at least three people.
After Russia fired missiles into western Ukraine against Vinnitsa airport, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zhelensky again called on the international community to include Ukraine in the no-fly zone. However, the idea was rejected by NATO, who did not want to risk a direct confrontation with Russia.
The situation in Ukraine can be seen directly here.
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