The EU is not likely to escalate matters with Russia over Crimea even though the issue is expected to dominate the discussions of the 28 EU leaders meeting for a two-day summit meeting in Brussels later today.

Diplomatic sources told Times of Malta that although there are some member states that insist measures against Russia should be stepped up, they stop short of full blown economic sanctions or a trade war as many are conscious of the consequences this might have on many of the EU states.

Although Malta will not be directly affected by economic sanctions as trade  between the two countries is low, the government is taking a very lukewarm approach to the whole issue insisting it is important that the EU speaks with one voice and achieves a common position.

“Malta will obviously follow the flow and will agree to any position the EU decides to take. However, in the current circumstances, we don’t foresee economic sanctions at this stage,” a senior diplomat said.

Other items on the summit’s agenda are an agreement on the saving tax directive and a review of the country specific recommendations.

No major decisions are expected.

Prime Minister Joseph Muscat will be representing Malta at this summit.