Germany’s unions and employers joined efforts to oppose the European Union’s (EU) immediate ban on Russian natural gas, which comes as a result of the Russian invasion of Ukraine, AP News reported.

The opposing forces say that the boycott would result in factory shutdowns and job losses that would ultimately affect the EU’s largest economy.

“A rapid gas embargo would lead to loss of production, shutdowns, a further de-industrialization and the long-term loss of work positions in Germany,” said Reiner Hoffmann, chairman of the DGB trade union confederation, and Rainer Dulger, chairman of the BDA employer’s group, in a joint statement.

They explained that the sanctions should put pressure on Russia, without causing damage to the countries imposing these sanctions.

This comes as Europe’s leaders are discussing possible energy sanctions on Russian oil, after taking a decision to ban Russian coal imports starting in August.