The Times learned of London's fears about Russia's gas supplies to Europe

Officials in the UK government fear that possible Western sanctions against Russia over the situation around Ukraine will lead to a reduction in Russian gas supplies to Europe, reports The Times, citing sources.

According to the newspaper, the British Cabinet expects that if sanctions are introduced, Russia will be able to use its natural resources as a “weapon” and limit supplies.

According to the sources of the publication, members of the government previously participated in a meeting at which they assessed how the reduction in supplies would affect the United Kingdom. There is no direct risk of gas shortages, they said, but the conflict will push fuel prices to new record levels.

“Unlike some countries, the UK practically does not import Russian gas,” said one of the interlocutors. “But, like all countries, we are at risk of rising wholesale prices, which will become a serious problem if Russia further restricts supplies.”