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Why are EU energy firms agreeing to pay in roubles for Russia’s gas?

Despite risk of breaching sanctions, stakes are high after supplies to Poland and Bulgaria are cut off

Energy companies in Germany and Hungary have confirmed they intend to comply with Vladimir Putin’s demand that buyers of Russian gas pay for contracts in roubles. But the EU has warned there is a risk the companies would be in breach of sanctions prohibiting transactions with Russia’s central bank. The stakes are high, because the Kremlin has already switched off supplies to Poland and Bulgaria.

Ukraine war: Putin warns against foreign intervention

Any country trying to intervene in the Ukraine war will face a “lightning-fast” response, Russian President Vladimir Putin has warned.

“We have all the tools no-one can boast of… we will use them if necessary”, he said, in what is seen as a reference to ballistic missiles and nuclear arms.

Ukraine’s allies have stepped up the supply of weapons, with the US vowing to make sure Ukraine defeats Russia.

Western officials say Russia is being hampered in its efforts in the east.

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