Radio Liberty: EU warns Kyiv that Russia sanctions could hinge on reforms
Danish Foreign Minister Kristian Jensen attends a meeting of the Civil Liberties Committee at the European Parliament in Brussels Jan. 25, 2016. (AP Photo)
Experts say if Ukraine does not implement reforms it risks to lose European support
In an exclusive interview with Reuters on February 5, Danish Foreign Minister Kristian Jensen said Ukraine must fully carry out the reforms outlined by the Minsk process for regulating the conflict between Kyiv and Russia-backed separatists in eastern Ukraine.
Otherwise, “it will be very difficult for Europe to continue united in support of sanctions against Russia.”
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The European Union is concerned about political infighting in Kyiv and its failure to implement serious reforms, a failure that was highlighted by the resignation this week of Economy Minister Aivaras Abromavicius.
The European Union imposed targeted sanctions against Russia’s energy, banking, and defense sectors in July 2014. The sanctions are scheduled to expire in July, but could be extended.
Under the Minsk process, Kyiv has agreed to adopt constitutional amendments to decentralize power.