G7 countries pledge to phase out imports of Russian oil

Group of Seven (G7) countries have pledged to ban or phase out imports of Russian oil over Ukraine row.

The announcement came as the G7 held its third meeting of the year yesterday via video conference, with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky participating. The meeting was called to discuss the conflict, support for Ukraine, and additional measures against Moscow, including on energy.  

The joint statement from the G7, France, Canada, Germany, Italy, Japan, Britain, and the US, did not specify exactly what commitments each country will make to move away from Russian energy. The statement said, they will ensure that they do so



in a timely and orderly fashion, and in ways that provide time for the world to secure alternative supplies.

The G7 leaders also slammed President Vladimir Putin personally for his actions in Ukraine. The leaders commemorated the end of World War 2 in Europe, which happened on this day in 1945, following the surrender of the German forces to the allied powers.

Accusing Russia of violating the international rules-based order, particularly the UN Charter, the statement called on all partners to join their G7's support for the Ukrainian people and for refugees, and to help Ukraine to rebuild its future.