The crisis in Ukraine, Borrell: We're considering all options and scenarios.

In his latest blog, Borrell said Russia continues to assemble its army at the border with Ukraine, including preparations for military exercises in Belarus and naval exercises within Russia, and that the EU is united in opposing Moscow's bid to create partition lines in Europe.

“They bring memories of the “impact settings” that do not belong to the 21st century. We can't and won't accept this. In the face of these challenges, our unity is our main force, and all in the EU understand this”, he wrote.

Borrell said the EU is closely co-operating with the United States and NATO when it comes to steps to resolve the security crisis in Eastern Europe.

“Ukrainian is our partner and neighbour, and Ukraine's security is also our”, he said.

The head of EU diplomacy adds that under close transatlantic co-ordination, the US and NATO sent their written answers to Russia's demands, which refocus concerns about Russian actions that undermine European security and make proposals for areas where a common language can be found.

I welcome the proposals of the United States and NATO, they have the potential, if negotiated with confidence, improve security in Europe and at the same time address Russia's concerns through mutual obligations. These answers stress that the US, NATO and the EU prefer diplomacy and that we are willing to move forward if Russia de-proportionates aggression against Ukraine and approaches security talks in Europe in a balanced and mutually”, Borrell said.

He estimates that at the moment “Russia is waging a war of nerves”, and that the EU “should hold back” and insist on diplomacy.

We should be ready if diplomacy fails. We are considering all options and scenarios, including partner work, such as the United States, Qatar and Azerbaijan, on the issue of gas supply in the event Russia decides to reduce or stop supplies”, Borrell said.

It also stresses that measures that would cause large <x0 seconds for the Russian economy and financial system” are being taken into account, including “the export control of products Russia needs to fulfill its strategic ambitions”.