BRUSSELS, December 10, Reuters - The European Union warned Russia that it would face consequences if it invaded Ukraine, as Germany's new chancellor called for talks to resolve tensions after Moscow amassed troops on its border with its southwestern neighbour.
Aggression needs to come with a price tag, and that is why we will communicate these points ahead of time to Russia, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen told a joint news conference with Olaf Scholz.
Ukraine accuses Russia of preparing for a large-scale military offensive. The Kremlin doesn't plan to attack.
According to von der Leyen, sanctions on Moscow could include shutting down the Nord Stream 2 pipeline that will carry gas to Europe and that energy should never be used to exert pressure, and the energy security of Europe and its neighbours should be secured.
Scholz declined to answer the question on the Russian-German pipeline, saying that although it was clear that the EU and others would react if there was an invasion of Ukraine, talks to prevent such an outcome were also important.
Earlier in the day, during a visit to France, there was a visit to www.reuters. Scholz said that com world europe macron-welcomes scholz-france common-ground aftermerkel 2021 -- 12 -- 10 Germany, Russia and Ukraine should re-start their talks in Normandy format to solve the crisis.
French President Emmanuel Macron warned against the risk of self-fulfilling prophecies following the U.S. intelligence assessment that a multi-front offensive on Ukraine by Russia could take place as early as next year.
Von der Leyen said that the 27-nation EU was ready to step up economic and financial sanctions against Russia, along with partner countries, should it invade Ukraine.
We want a good relationship with Russia, but it depends first and foremost on the way in which Russia behaves. Russia is taking a threatening position towards its neighbours and undermines Europe's security, she said.