European High-representative / Vice-President Josep Borrel said that the European Union is not preparing new sanctions against Russia. He made a corresponding statement on Monday, April 19, following a meeting of the EU Foreign Affairs Ministers, which considered the ‘Russian cluster’ – all the issues related with Russian but mainly Ukraine.
The remarks made by EU Vice-President Josep Borell were published by the press service of the European Commission.
“…for the time being there is no move on the field of more sanctions on Russia. Things can change, but the situation is the way I am explaining,” Josep Borell said at the press conference.
The diplomat, however, noted that the situation near the borders of Ukraine "should stop" and once again called on Russia to take steps to de-escalate the situation on the border with Ukraine.
“We commented about the situation on the border. The Russian military build-up at the Ukrainian border is very concerning. There are more than 100,000* Russian troops amassing at the Ukrainian borders and in Crimea. The risk of further escalation is evident. We have to commend Ukraine for its restrained response and we urge Russia to de-escalate and to defuse tensions. The message of all Ministers has been very much clear: a complete reiteration of strong support for Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity. Once again, it includes the non-recognition of the illegal annexation of Crimea and the request for the full implementation of the Minsk agreements. We will continue supporting the efforts of the Normandy format,” Borell stated.