EU Threatens 'Never-Seen-Before' Sanctions If Russia Attacks Ukraine

The European Union (EU) is reportedly prepared to impose unprecedented economic sanctions on Russia if it attacks Ukraine.

Tensions have continued to mount near Ukraine's border, after Russia sent masses of troops to the area, leading to fears of a pending invasion.

While Russia has denied such claims, the EU has warned that sanctions could be imposed if Russia moves ahead.

The tense situation was discussed by ministers as they gathered for talks in Brussels.

Gabrielius Landsbergis, the Lithuanian Foreign Minister, spoke about the issue, saying, 'Knowing Russia's tactics, I'm sure one of their aims is to splinter the West, this is a victory we cannot afford to give to the Russians'.

Jeppe Kofod, a Danish Foreign Minister, also spoke about the situation.

He told reporters, 'There's no doubt we are ready to react with comprehensive, never-seen-before sanctions if Russia were to invade Ukraine again.'

It has not been confirmed what sectors would be hit by the sanctions, but Kofod continued to explain the potential repercussions, 'Russia should know, Putin should know that the price of using provocations and military forces to change borders in Europe will be very, very high... We are ready to undertake the most severe sanctions, also more severe than in 2014.'

The 2014 sanctions Kofod mentions is a reference to the EU and the US imposing economic sanctions on Moscow after Russia annexed the Crimean peninsula.

There had been concerns that due to the differing interests of the 27 nations that make up the EU, as well as the US and Russia's relationship, that a joint position between ministers may not be reached.

However, the EU has said it is working alongside the US on how to tackle repercussions against Russia. Reportedly, a sanctions package aimed at Russian officials and banking institutions is potentially being put together.

Olaf Scholz, a German Chancellor, has urged for caution surrounding such sanctions, explaining how they could impact Germany.

'Prudence dictates choosing measures that will have the greatest effect on those who violate the jointly agreed principles, at the same time, we have to consider the consequences this will have for us', he said.

However, Scholz is not against the sanctions and explained how they may be necessary to act in the case of an 'emergency'.

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