Some major Ukrainian aides, including the United States, are considering a near-total ban on exports to Russia. This was confirmed by several people familiar with the matter. It could significantly increase economic pressure on Russia.
Officials from the Group of Seven (G7) countries are discussing a near-total ban on exports to Russia ahead of the Hiroshima summit in May, according to people familiar with the matter. It is also aiming to get European Union (EU) member states to join the measure. The draft is still under discussion and is subject to change, the people said.
The plan, which would ban all exports to Russia unless an exception is granted, would overturn existing sanctions against Russia, the people said. At present, all exports are permitted unless sanctioned.
If G7 leaders endorse the plan at the summit, they will now need to agree on the details of items exempt from the export ban, one of the people said. Agricultural products, including food, are very likely to be exempt, as well as pharmaceuticals, he said.
A spokesman for the US National Security Council (NSC) declined to comment on the possibility of a near-total ban on exports to Russia.
Original title:US, Ukraine Allies Consider Near-Total Ban on Exports to Russia(excerpt)
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