The European Union is refusing to pay in rubles for Russian gas and is preparing to gradually suspend supplies.

APA reports quoting Le Matin that the proposal was made at an emergency meeting of EU energy ministers in Brussels.

Energy Commissioner Kadri Simson said that 97% of contracts signed by European companies specify the type of currency.

This is either the euro or the dollar.

The next payments are scheduled for mid-May, and all companies will meet their contractual obligations.

At the same time, the Union countries must be ready to suspend gas supplies.

The ministers also exchanged views on the gradual abandonment of Russian oil.

However, no decision has been made on the issue.

"A new package of sanctions is being prepared.

However, this is not the subject of our meeting, "said French Environment Minister Barbara Pompili.

Cadre Simson also confirmed the fact: “A board meeting of the commissioners will be held on Tuesday.

The final decision will be made by Ursula von der Leyen.

"I think next week the Commission will adopt the sixth package of sanctions against Russia," said German Energy Minister Robert Habek.