EU should strengthen sanctions against Russia in case of deterioration of situation in Ukraine – Estonian FM

14:57, 08.02.2017 1 min read

Estonian Foreign Minister Sven Mikser believes that sanctions could curb the ambitions of Russia, calls on the European Union to strengthen them in the event of deterioration of the situation in Ukraine.

"The situation is very serious in Avdiyivka area and it deserves international condemnation. The international community must be ready to respond," the foreign minister said in an interview with Interfax.

In his opinion, the best way to influence Russia is to strengthen the sanctions.

"We believe that sanctions have the influence in curbing the ambitions of Russia, so that this effect can not be underestimated," Mikser said.

"When we see no readiness to perform the Minsk agreements in Moscow, on the contrary, we see the opposite, then this can not be underestimated," the minister said.

Mikser emphasized that "the sanctions imposed against the aggressor, or their cancellation, depend on whether the aggressor reimbursed the damage, whether it fulfilled its obligations. This is Estonia's position, which is unchangeable."