EU is not going to fulfill Russia’s demands for security in the Black Sea

The European Union has rejected Russia’s demand to lift sanctions as part of a partial ceasefire agreement in the Black Sea.

The sanctions regime will remain in place until the “unconditional withdrawal” of Russian troops from Ukraine, said Anitta Hipper, the European Commission’s representative for foreign affairs.

“The main task of the EU remains to put maximum pressure on Russia, using all available tools, including sanctions, to limit Russia’s ability to wage war against Ukraine,” said Hipper.

The Commission also rejected Russian accusations that EU sanctions against Russia have restricted food and fertilizer exports to poor countries.

“The EU has consistently supported efforts to strengthen global food security. The EU sanctions are in no way aimed at trade in agricultural goods, including food, grain and fertilizers between Russia and third countries,” the European Commission representative emphasized.

Tags: Black Sea region, sanctions, Black Sea grain corridor, EU