Greek PM: Sanctions against Russia are unproductive
At a joint press conference with Russian President Vladimir Putin, Greek Prime Minister Alexis Tsirpas said Western sanctions against Russia were unproductive.
"We have repeatedly said that the vicious circle of militarization, of Cold War rhetoric and of sanctions is not productive. The solution is dialogue,” Tsirpas said.
At the same time Putin noted that during his meeting with Tsirpas, the annexation of the Crimea will not be discussed because “the matter is closed forever.”
“Russia will not conduct any discussions with anyone on this subject," Putin added.
Western officials have repeatedly stated that the sanctions against Russia are clearly linked to the full implementation of the Minsk Agreements. The West has also stressed that Moscow must respect Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
"Sanctions can be revoked in the event that Russia meet its obligations in accordance with the agreements," a summit declaration of the G7 meeting stated.