BRUSSELS (Sputnik) — At the EU summit in October, the leaders discussed the possibility of imposing new sanctions on Russia. However, the wording was changed due to Italy's position; and the EU did not threaten Russia with restrictive measures. The situation in Syria will be discussed at the EU summit on Thursday.
"Do you remember the discussion in October, when, I think, nearly all member countries were ready to sign the proposed conclusions [on Syria] put forward by [European Council President Donald] Tusk with references to Russia. There was no consensus then. As far as I know, the position of the member country, which was against, is unchanged," the official, who prefered to remain unnamed, said.
Last week, the leaders of the United States, Britain, Germany, France, Italy and Canada voiced readiness to impose sanctions against allies of Syrian President Bashar Assad. The Western countries also said in a joint statement that Russia and Iran should influence the Syrian leadership over the situation in Aleppo.