Merkel insists Russia sanctions tied to Minsk accords

REUTERS

"The sanctions can be removed as soon as Russia fulfills these obligations," spokesman Steffen Seibert told a regular government news conference, reiterating the stance agreed at a meeting of the Group of Seven economic powers last month, as reported by Reuters.

Read alsoEU Council to consider extension of sanctions against Russia on June 21"However, we are ready to take further restrictive measures to increase the costs for Russia, should its actions make this necessary," he added.

German Foreign Minister Frank-Walter Steinmeier was quoted on Sunday as saying the European Union should gradually phase out sanctions imposed against Russia over the Ukraine crisis if there is substantial progress in the peace process.