Poroshenko agrees with Merkel’s call for stronger sanctions against Russia
The President of Ukraine, Petro Poroshenko, conducted a telephone call with the Chancellor of Germany, Angela Merkel. Both parties agreed to intensify the work in the Normandy format and in other sectors, the Presidential press service reported. In particular, the call concerned the development of a clear roadmap for the implementation of the Minsk Agreements, including Russia’s fulfillment of the security component.
As noted in the report, the President of Ukraine pointed out Russia’s constant violation of the Minsk Agreements. Poroshenko stressed the importance of Europe’s cooperation, not only to maintain sanctions against Russia but also to strengthen them, in case the situation in the Donbas deteriorates further.
Petro Poroshenko also called for assistance in freeing Ukrainian political prisoners in Russian territory and many Ukrainian hostages in the occupied territory. The DPR (Donetsk People’s Republic) rejected the Ukrainian authorities’ proposal for releasing prisoners and demanded the release of 600 people in an all-for-all exchange.