You're reading: Tusk calls for extending sanctions against Russia

Ukraine’s Prime Minister Volodymyr Groysman and European Council President Donald Tusk during a meeting in Brussels on Feb. 9 discussed introduction of the visa-free regime and the process of ratification of the EU-Ukraine Association Agreement, as well as the security situation in eastern Ukraine.

“Ukraine has fulfilled all criteria for visa-free status in EU states. We count on the EU fulfilling its obligations without bureaucratic delays,” Groysman said, according to his press service.

Tusk, in turn, said the EU is closely monitoring the work of Ukraine’s government.

“The European Council is impressed by the reform results of the Ukrainian government,” Tusk said.

The men discussed the situation in eastern Ukraine. Groysman noted the escalation of hostilities, as well as the situation in Avdiyivka, saying they jeopardize peaceful resolution of the conflict in Donbas. Tusk expressed complete support for Ukraine in peacefully settling the conflict and praised Ukraine for “effective actions of the government to ensure the safety and well-being of Avdiyivka residents.”

“During the talks, Ukraine’s PM received support from the European Council president and acknowledgment of the necessity of continuing sanctions against the Russian Federation,” Groysman’s press service said.

“Sanctions are a punitive measure, and lifting them would be a reward for Russia if it backs away from aggression and keeps to commonly held norms of international law, respect for Ukraine’s sovereignty, territorial integrity and democratic values.” Groysman was quoted as saying.