The head of European diplomacy, Josep Borrell, called on Monday, July 18, Europeans to "
hold on
" in the face of soaring energy and food prices, consequences of the war in Ukraine.
"
This is a stress test for our societies
," he said after a meeting of EU foreign ministers in Brussels.
“
I am sure that (Russian President Vladimir) Putin is counting on the fatigue of the Democrats.
I'm sure he thinks democracies are weak.
European societies cannot afford to be tired
,” he said.
"There is no miracle solution"
European leaders are worried that hostility to Western sanctions against Moscow is growing in public opinion, while fuel, gas and electricity prices are soaring in Europe.
"
European companies and the governments of the Member States of the European Union must continue to defend the decisions they have taken
", insisted Josep Borrell, referring to the sanctions which must "
continue to put pressure on the economy of the Russia, knowing that there is no miracle solution
".
Read alsoEmbargo on Russian oil: Josep Borrell hardly optimistic about the unanimity of Europeans
"
We have to do this, just as we have to support Ukraine militarily
," he continued.
“
Of course there is an increase in energy and food prices.
This is the direct consequence of this war
,” acknowledged the head of European diplomacy.
“
Luckily we weren't bombed, we didn't have to leave our homes.
But the whole world is suffering from the consequences of this war
,” he stressed.