Reinsalu: Extention of EU Crimea sanctions shows 'unwavering support'

Minister of Foreign Affairs Urmas Reinsalu said the decision of the European Union to extend sanctions on Russia over the annexation of Crimea showed "unwavering support" to the territorial integrity of Ukraine.
Reinsalu (Isamaa): "This decision demonstrates the unwavering support of the European Union to the territorial integrity of Ukraine and that violation of international law has consequences for the aggressor."
On Thursday, the Council of the European Union decided to extend the restrictive measures established over the illegal annexation of Crimea and Sevastopol until June 23, 2021. The extension will enter into force on June 20.
The minister said: "This is particularly important now that Russia is trying to take advantage of the COVID-19 pandemic and deepen its aggression towards Ukraine".
He added, although Russia has tried to use the COVID-19 crisis as a pretext for undermining the sanctions policy, the sanctions imposed by the EU and the UN generally permit requesting humanitarian exceptions and do not obstruct states from fighting the pandemic.
The measures are implemented in respect of EU persons and companies.
The restrictive measures are a part of the non-recognition policy and cover the prohibition of the provision of various financial and investment services in Crimea and Sevastopol. Importing goods from the region to the territory of the EU, exporting goods from the transport, telecommunications, energy and oil, gas and mineral resources sector to Crimea and Sevastopol, and provision of services related to the construction of their infrastructure are also prohibited. Provision of tourism services is also prohibited.
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Editor: Helen Wright