Quote:
Originally Posted by Enoch Root
This is about (among other things) Ukraine's inclusion in the EU vs the Eurasian Block. And if Russia isn't stopped, it could spread to other Eastern European nations.
The long term impacts for Germany are far greater than the cost of natural gas. Also, the pressure would be far greater on Russia than Germany - there are other options for sources for NG and energy in the short term.
Not saying they would enjoy it, but the long term costs of inaction would massively outweigh the short term costs of the sanctions
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I don't entirely disagree with you, I just think you're underestimating the stomach Germany and other EU countries would have for immediate economic problems. They had a chance to step up to the plate today and are already talking about patience.
I do agree, that long term the best thing to do would probably be side with the Ukraine and stop as much trade as possible with Russia. But we know how much current governments plan ahead nowadays. It's all about keep things as rosy as possible, get re-elected, and let the next guy clean up your mess. As well, the whole EU is horribly sensitive to economic matters right now. Whether it will help them long term or not, it is up in the air if they are willing to go through the short term pain to get there.