Blinken: G7 is committed to supporting Ukraine

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said on Friday the Group of Seven leading economic powers was committed to continuing their support for Ukraine.

After speaking with fellow G7 members ahead of a meeting next week, Blinken said leaders had agreed to "continue doing what we've been doing in support of Ukraine", which includes placing sanctions on Russia and strengthening the defenses of other countries.

Blinken also praised Europe for taking "very courageous steps" to move away from dependence on Russian oil.

Shortages of natural gas and higher prices are putting tremendous financial pressure on Germany, Italy, Austria, Netherlands, Poland, Bulgaria, Finland, the Czech Republic and Denmark, among others.