EU backs proposed Russia sanctions, keeps LNG shipping ban unchanged

The European Commission has reaffirmed its support for the proposed 21st package of sanctions against Russia and said it does not intend to discuss possible exemptions to the ban on transporting Russian liquefied natural gas (LNG), despite Greece's requests, Report informs.

Speaking at a briefing in Brussels, European Commission chief spokesperson Paula Pinho declined to comment on Greece's calls to ease the restriction, citing ongoing negotiations over the sanctions package.

"We stand by our proposal for the 21st sanctions package. It is currently being discussed by the member states, so we will not comment on individual elements of those discussions," she said.

Pinho added that the Commission hopes the new sanctions package will be approved soon, although its adoption requires unanimous support from all EU member states.

Asked about Greece's efforts to secure a review of the ban on transporting Russian LNG on EU-owned vessels, Pinho said: "The ban is in force and remains in force."

The issue has emerged during complex negotiations over the proposed 21st sanctions package. Politico, citing European diplomats, reported that the European Commission is seeking to persuade Greece to withdraw its objections to the ban, while Athens argues that the measure would seriously harm its shipping industry.