The European Union could not agree on the 14th package of sanctions against Russia due to Germany's position, Reuters reports, citing EU diplomats.
According to Reuters sources, Germany has objected to the clause holding EU companies liable for sanctions violations because of the potential impact on the country's industry.
Officials from the 27 EU countries have been debating for more than a month a package that includes a ban on Russian liquefied natural gas (LNG) shipments and a plan to hold EU operators liable for sanctions violations by their subsidiaries and partners in third countries.
The European Union was expected to announce the approval of the 14th package of sanctions against the federation before the start of the planned global peace summit in Switzerland.