VP/HR — Questioning sanctions against Russia

7.11.2014

Question for written answer E-008921-14
to the Commission (Vice-President/High Representative)
Rule 130
Esther de Lange (PPE)

In an interview with a number of European newspapers, including Süddeutsche Zeitung and Le Monde, the High Representative voiced doubt as to whether the EU's sanctions against Russia are genuinely having a political impact.

1. Did the High Representative make the comment concerned? Does she take the view that the EU must speak with one voice in order to be of consequence in the world and that uncertainty about the line taken by the EU may weaken its position in the world and vis-à-vis Russia?

2. How does the High Representative propose to ensure that Russia does change its policy, what does that require in her opinion, and how does she intend to go about this?

3. How does the High Representative view Russia's recognition of the recent elections in the self-proclaimed ‘people's republics’ of Donetsk and Lugansk in eastern Ukraine?