German Chancellor Angela Merkel says EU sanctions against Russia will remain in place if the implementation of the Minsk agreement is delayed.
Merkel said Europe will continue to push for the implementation of the deal that calls for an end to fighting in eastern Ukraine. She added that the EU trade agreement with Ukraine, which is due to take effect next year, isn't directed against Russia. Merkel called on Kiev to tackle corruption and press ahead with economic reforms. She said German businesses are willing to invest in the country under right conditions, and promised to help Ukraine stabilize its economy. Meanwhile, Ukraine's Prime Minister Arseny Yatseniuk said that the economy has improved in recent months. Yatseniuk added that Germany's assistance is needed to implement the required restructurings.