Italian Council of State President Franco Frattini. Archival photoROME, Feb 15, by Sergey Startsev.In conditions when the European Union needs Russian natural gas, it is difficult to impose sanctions against the Russian Federation, Franco Frattini, Chairman of the State Council of Italy, said in an interview with RIA Novosti. «When there is a need for Russian gas, it is difficult to impose sanctions against Russia. It's all about the diplomatic balance,» the well-known European politician emphasized. According to Frattini, if Russian President Vladimir Putin in the current situation, in addition to Italy, gave guarantees for the supply of EU energy carriers, «this gesture would be highly appreciated, since it is obvious that many Europeans depend on Russian gas supplies.» At the same time, the interlocutor of the agency noted that the Russian leader «even partially gave» such guarantees. «It would be good for the Russian president to say:» Our energy supplies, which until yesterday were carried out not only to Italy, but also to other European countries, will the same countries.» That is, without making a distinction between friends and non-friends. It would be a far-sighted, leadership, strategic gesture that would be highly appreciated in Europe,» the head of the State Council said.
Peskov explained why Europe buys gas at a high price»I hope that this matter will be resolved through the full resumption of gas supplies not only to Italy, but also to other European countries,» Frattini said. On January 26, during a video conference with prominent representatives of Italian business, Putin once again assured his partners of the reliability of Russian energy supplies to the Apennines. He emphasized that thanks to existing long-term contracts, Italy buys Russian gas at below market prices, and noted that in 2021, supplies increased by 2 billion cubic meters compared to 2020.
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