European Parliament proposes to suspend the Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline project
The Foreign Relations Committee of the European Parliament formulated in its report the basic principles of building relations with Moscow, RT reported.
MEPs voiced five recommendations: imposing sanctions, financial control, organizing international investigations, and countering security threats. Another point is the fight against Russian interference in the affairs of the European Union and opposition to Russian-language propaganda, including through the creation of a TV channel with round-the-clock broadcasting. This also includes supporting a pro-democratic society in Russia and inspiring Russians through the Eastern Partnership program.
Brussels also proposed not to recognize the legitimacy of the new composition of the State Duma after the elections in September, if they are held with falsifications. The authors of the report noted that it is advisable to tell Russia about the benefits in case of its formation on the path of democratic transformations. For example, the visa regime will be simplified, strategic partnerships, investment programs in free trade and modernization are possible.
In relations with the United States, the European Union is encouraged to unite to defend democracy around the world and develop common measures for sanctions, financial assistance and support for human rights activists. To comply with the principle of democracy first, European countries should take into account the issue of human rights and free elections in any dialogue or agreement with the Kremlin.
This policy should start with the suspension of the Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline project. The European Union is also going to prepare a plan to reduce purchases of Russian oil and gas. To contain the Russian aggression, the text proposes, together with NATO and international partners, to put pressure on Moscow, which should stop interfering in the affairs of the countries of the former USSR and return Donbass to Ukraine.
Moreover, if Russia continues aggressive threats and military actions, then the European Union may threaten to disconnect the state from the international payment system SWIFT.