If the ban is introduced, not earlier than April 24.
The EU is preparing a new package of sanctions against Russia, to which may include a ban on imports of Russian oil. However, there is a reason why the introduction of the oil embargo is delayed – the election in France, writes The New York Times.
According to the NYT, the final decision will be made only after the second round of elections in France on April 24 .
It is specified that the increase in fuel prices caused by the ban on Russian oil imports may reduce the chances of incumbent French President Emmanuel Macron for re-election and play into the hands of his rival Marine Le Pen, who is believed to sympathize with Putin and does not support tough sanctions on Russia.
Read also: Ireland supports embargo on Russian oil
Russia is already preparing to impose an embargo on Russian oil. Experts Russia has offered options to circumvent the ban.
