Industry Minister: Czechia would support ending Russial oil imports under certain conditions

Under certain conditions the Czech Republic would support an end to Russian oil supplies by the end of this year, Industry and Trade Minister Jozef Síkela said on Monday after an extraordinary meeting with his EU colleagues which was focused on ensuring sufficient gas supplies. The minister also said that the Czech Republic continues to refuse to pay for Russian gas in roubles, as has been demanded by Moscow.

EU states have been discussing cutting Russian oil deliveries in their new package of sanctions which is set to be proposed this week. The Czech Republic would consider supporting the proposal if a system of shared EU energy purchases proves functional and the union will have sufficient oil reserves to cover possible shortages on the European market, Mr Síkela said.