Putin orders gov't to draft banned imports list

By Elena Teslova

MOSCOW (AA) - Amid mounting Western sanctions, Russian President Vladimir Putin ordered the government on Tuesday to draft a list of imports to be banned or restricted in the country.

He gave officials two days to complete the list of raw materials and products, as well as that of countries to which the restrictions would apply, in a decree on the economic measures to be in effect until at least the end of the year.

On Monday, Russia issued a list of countries "taking unfriendly actions against Russia, Russian companies, and citizens," after they imposed severe economic sanctions over the war in Ukraine.

Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak said later that after the EU halted the certification of the Nord Stream 2 pipeline, Moscow had the right to take reciprocal measures and stop pumping gas through the Nord Stream 1 pipeline.

Novak pointed out that despite the economic sanctions, Russia continues to fulfill its obligations under the contracts it signed on the delivery of gas, oil, and oil products.

However, statements by EU officials on their strong desire to "get rid" of Russia's oil and gas is a major concern, he added.

"Attempts to initiate a discussion on the import ban undermine the foundations of the market, create uncertainty, and lead to significant damage to consumers," he said.

He also claimed that Ukraine could undertake false-flag provocations against gas transport systems from Russia to Ukraine.

Russia's war on Ukraine, which began Feb. 24, has drawn international condemnation, led to financial sanctions on Moscow and spurred an exodus of global firms from Russia.

At least 474 civilians have been killed and 861 injured in Ukraine since the beginning of the war, according to the UN, while noting that conditions on the ground make it difficult to verify the true number.

Some 2 million people have also fled to neighboring countries, said the UN refugee agency.