The EU will not negotiate with Russia “forever,” and sanctions may eventually have to be imposed if Moscow continues to build up its military near the Ukrainian border, European Council President Charles Michel said on Sunday.
Speaking to the Munich Security Conference, Michel suggested that diplomacy would not last forever, and economic measures could be placed on Moscow if there is no sign of retreat.
“We cannot forever offer an olive branch while Russia conducts missile tests and continues to amass troops,” Michel told gathered officials. “One thing is certain: if there is further military aggression, we will react with massive sanctions.”
In recent months, Russia has been accused of placing more than 100,000 soldiers near its border with Ukraine, with some believing this to be a sign of an impending invasion. The Kremlin has repeatedly denied this accusation.