VP/HR — Worsening of the Russian-Ukrainian conflict

19.12.2018

Question for written answer E-006381-18
to the Commission (Vice-President/High Representative)
Rule 130
Jiří Pospíšil (PPE)

Sunday, 25 November 2018, saw a further deterioration of the Russian-Ukrainian conflict in the Kerch Strait between the Sea of Azov and the Black Sea, when Russian border guards fired upon and seized several Ukrainian ships, injuring a number of Ukrainian sailors. The information provided by the two parties so far indicates that it was an unlawful attack on the Ukrainian vessels by Russia. The seriousness of the situation was later confirmed by the Ukrainian Parliament, which, following the incident, declared martial law for a month.

1. On Thursday, 13 December 2018, the European Council unanimously decided to extend economic sanctions against Russia for a further six months. Can Ms Mogherini, High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, say what her opinion is regarding the effectiveness of the sanctions against Russia?

2. In view of the long-term worsening of the conflict by Russia, is Ms Mogherini considering tightening these sanctions, or taking any other action?