EU Commission halts cross-border cooperation with Russia, Belarus
The European Commission (EC) announced on Friday that it has suspended cross-border cooperation programs with Russia and Belarus.
"The suspension of all cross-border and transnational programs and payments for Russia and Belarus, and at the same time increased support for Ukraine, is a concrete expression of the European policy of cohesion and solidarity with the Ukrainian people," said Elisa Ferreira, EC member for cohesion and reforms.
The EC communique notes that the suspension of programs involving Russia and Belarus takes effect immediately. The total EU funding for eight programs with Russia amounted to EUR 178 million and for two programs with Belarus - EUR 257 million.
The message of the European Commission notes that the regulation on cross-border cooperation programs provides for suspension "in cases of violation of international law, human rights, democratic principles and the rule of law."
