Considering the situation in Ukraine and effectiveness of the renewed diplomatic efforts the European Commission and the European External Action Service will continue the preparatory work on any appropriate measures in view of the Council of European Union on 12 February 2015.
"This decision made by the Foreign Affairs Council is a clear message to Russia. If Russia makes no progress in implementation of the Minsk Agreements, EU sanctions will be extended and new sanctions will be imposed", said the Minister.
Linkevičius stressed that we must remain consistent for as long as Russia continues its aggression against the neighbouring state, and the EU must remain tough and continue tightening sanctions on Russia for as long as people in Ukraine continue to die.
The meeting has been held in response to the worsening situation in eastern Ukraine after the destruction of the airport in Donestk and shelling in Mariupol, which resulted in more than 30 civilian casualties.
