Security situation in Europe worries PM

Prime Minister Sanna Marin on Thursday said that the present security situation in Europe gives cause for concern and underscored the importance to try to resolve the situation peacefully by diplomatic means.

“The current security situation in Europe gives cause for concern. It is important to try to resolve the situation peacefully and by diplomatic means. It is essential that the situation does not further deteriorate and military measures do not escalate. In addition to statements, real measures are now needed from Russia to ease tension,” said Marin at the informal European Council meeting in Brussels.

The meeting expressed its strong and united support for Ukraine, its sovereignty and territorial integrity, said an official press release.

The leaders of the Member States endorsed the December European Council’s position that Russia’s military aggression against Ukraine would have serious and extensive consequences.

If necessary, the EU is prepared to swiftly step up sanctions against Russia.

The European Union has imposed various sanctions against Russia since 2014, when Russia occupied the Crimean Peninsula of Ukraine.