Meeting of EU ministers of foreign affairs
On Monday the EU’s Foreign Affairs Council extended economic sanctions on Russia for another six months. This implements a decision taken by the European Council in March. The aim of these steps is still to achieve peace and security for Ukraine.
2 min reading time
Outcome of the meeting in Luxembourg - sanctions on Russia to remain in place until the end of January 2016
Photo: EC / C Lambiotte
All EU member states voted to extend economic sanctions, reported Federal Foreign Minister Frank-Walter Steinmeier after the meeting in Luxembourg. The "benchmark" was clear in advance, he said. "Until the Minsk agreements are implemented and for as long as Russia bears the responsibility, it was agreed that the sanctions will be extended."
Restrictions on business and technology
The measures extended on Monday include restrictions on financial transactions with the five largest Russian financial institutions. There is also a ban on the import and export of military goods and equipment and technology in the energy sector (equipment for the oil industry instance).
Last Friday (19 June) the EU’s High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Federica Mogherini announced the extension of restrictions in conjunction with Crimea and Sevastopol. Products from these areas, which Russia unlawfully annexed, may be imported into the EU. This requires the authorisation of Ukraine’s central government, initially until 23 June 2016. Conversely, the export of technical goods to Crimea is banned. Restrictions also apply to cruise ship tourism.
The aim – full implementation of the Minsk agreements
In March, the European Council decided to extend sanctions on Russia. This is intended to support the implementation of the Minsk package of measures. The ministers of foreign affairs agreed that their main objective remains the full implementation of these agreements.
Sanctions on Russia were imposed on 31 July 2014 and expanded on 8 September 2014. The duration of sanctions will depend, among other factors, on the full implementation of the Minsk agreements by 31 December 2015.
The Minsk agreements aim to bring peace and security to a sovereign Ukraine. Following a first agreement in September 2014, a package of measures was agreed on 12 February 2015. The 13-point plan provides primarily for a ceasefire, the withdrawal of heavy weapons and buffer zones between the conflict parties. Political reforms and free elections are to be prepared.