G7 threatens Russia with hard-hitting sanctions
Meeting in Brussels rather than the Black Sea resort of Sochi — a snub to Russia which was supposed to have hosted the G8 — Western powers and Japan delivered strong rhetoric, even if the EU’s commitment to further sanctions remains in doubt.
“We are united in condemning the Russian Federation’s continuing violation of the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Ukraine,” the US, Germany, Japan, France, Britain, Italy and Canada said in a statement.
“Russia’s illegal annexation of Crimea, and actions to destabilise eastern Ukraine, are unacceptable and must stop.”
That message was reinforce by President Barack Obama, who said Russia’s economy was already suffering and would only suffer more.
“If Russia’s provocations continue, it’s clear from our discussions here that the G7 nations are ready to impose additional costs on Russia,” he said. “Today, in contrast to a growing global economy, a sluggish Russian economy is even weaker because of the choices made by Russia’s leadership.”
Putin, who meets Germany’s Angela Merkel, French president Francois Hollande and Britain’s David Cameron on the sidelines of 70th anniversary of the D-Day landings in France today, appeared unfazed by the threats.
Asked at an event in St Petersburg how he felt about being excluded, Putin was typically pointed, barely breaking stride to speak to reporters as he left a meeting. “I would like to wish them bon appetit,” he said.
