The process starts subject to the fulfilment by Russia of the Minsk agreements.
Sanctions against Russia should be removed gradually in parallel at least a small shift in the implementation of the Minsk agreements. This opinion was expressed in an interview with Focus, foreign Minister of Germany, Sigmar Gabriel.
He believes that such a step would help to show the Kremlin the benefit of the implementation of the Minsk agreements.
“According to existing decisions of the European Union, the Minsk agreement must be fulfilled 100% before 100% to lift the sanctions (against Russia – ed.). I think it’s unrealistic. It would be right to lift sanctions gradually, as small changes. To show that the steps towards peace profitable,” said Gabriel.
Gabriel also noted that “Russia must use its influence on separatists, and the US to influence Ukraine”. According to him, the USA have a great influence not Ukraine.
“USA have a big impact on Ukraine. I personally do not belong to those who would have been happy if the Americans withdrew from world Affairs. The world is still uncertain. U.S. Secretary of state Tillerson successfully conducts foreign policy”, – said the head of the German foreign Ministry.
Recall, the U.S. Senate on 15 June approved a bill providing for new sanctions against Russia and Iran. The bill, in particular, proposes to reduce the maximum term of market financing of Russian banks under sanctions, up to 14 days, and of the companies subjected to the oil and gas sector — up to 30 days.
On 28 June, the Council of the European Union adopted a decision to extend for another six months economic sanctions against Russia for non-compliance with the Minsk agreements. The EU sanctions, therefore, extended until 31 January 2018.
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