The European Commission has sent its proposal to member countries for consultation for a limited extension of the temporary crisis framework on state aid to support the agricultural sector. The current temporary framework is in force until 30 June.
Brussels intends to adopt the extension "as soon as possible, taking into account the responses received from member countries", according to the proposal. The proposal was submitted by the European Commission's Directorate-General for Economic and Financial Affairs, which is responsible for the EU's financial stability. The European Commission said the proposal was in response to the "direct and indirect" effects of Russia's aggression against Ukraine. It said the extension would be for a period of up to six months, with an option to extend it by a further six months if the response is positive. The Commission said it would consider the proposal in light of the response it received from the member countries, as well as the potential impact of the extension on the European Union's financial system. It added that the proposal would be based on the current situation in Ukraine, which has been hit by "persistent market disruptions"