Rinkevics calls for strong response to Russian aggression

  • 2014-03-03
  • From wire reports, RIGA

Latvia’s Foreign Minister Edgars Rinkevics would like a strong and coordinated response from international organizations to the latest developments in Ukraine, reports LETA. Latviahas been actively doing everything possible for NATO and the European Union's response to be stricter, but international organizations consist of separate member states and it is not easy to convince many of them, Rinkevics said in an interview on "Rietumu Radio" on March 3.

"I would like to see a strong and coordinated response from international organizations. However, let us not forget that Russiaplays a considerable role in many of them. I hope that the EU and NATO will be able to agree on specific steps. At the moment there are talks and great diplomatic pressure," said Rinkevics.

Discussions on the bloc's joint actions regarding the current situation in Ukraineare also expected during the Foreign Affairs Council's session today, predicted Rinkevics.

"We are 28 member states and each member state has its own opinion," added the minister.

Rinkevics will take part in the EU Foreign Affairs Council's extraordinary meeting on Ukrainetoday.

Latviawill come up with several proposals for solving the current situation in Ukraine, including urging the EU to sign its association agreement with Ukraineand consider imposing sanctions on several Ukrainian and Russian officials.