Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission (EC), told Bild am Sonntag that the European Union was considering measures against the Russian banking sector, specifically Sberbank, as well as restrictions in the energy sector when discussing additional sanctions against Russia over Ukraine.

Furthermore, the European Commission chief commented on the key points of the sixth package of sanctions against Russia, by saying: “We continue to consider the banking sector, specifically Sberbank, which accounts for 37% of Russia’s banking sector. And of course, the energy sector is discussed." 

She emphasized that the European Union is currently developing "smart mechanisms" that will allow oil to be included in the next round of sanctions against Russia.

Ursula von der Leyen dismissed criticism leveled at the German government for allegedly 'stalling' anti-Russian sanctions. Germany has been a staunch supporter of Ukraine for many years, and all five sanction packages were approved within 48 hours, she emphasized.

See more: Who is with or against sanctions on Russia?

European countries have imposed a wide range of sanctions on Russian companies and banks, and isolating Russia from the SWIFT financial system.