"This has not been achieved," Mogherini said. Asked whether the anti-Russia sanctions would be extended after the current round of punitive measures expires in July, the EU foreign policy chief said "I expect it."
The United States, the EU and some of their allies have imposed several rounds of sanctions targeting key sectors of the Russian economy, as well as a number of individuals and entities, over Crimea’s reunification with Russia and Moscow's alleged interference in the conflict between Kiev and independence militia in eastern Ukraine.
Russia has repeatedly refuted the allegations, warning that the Western sanctions are counterproductive. In response to the restrictive measures, Russia has imposed a food embargo on some products originating in countries that have targeted it with sanctions.
The latest round of Western punitive measures against Russia is up for extension among EU members before the July 31 expiration deadline.
