Are European sanctions on Russia working?
EU extends measures for six months, accusing Moscow of violating Ukraine ceasefire deal.
The conflict in eastern Ukraine is sometimes called Europe's forgotten war. German Chancellor Angela Merkel says the European Union has no choice but to extend sanctions against Russia's energy, financial and arms sectors until next January.
It follows worsening relations between Germany and Russia. Moscow is accused of ordering a murder in Berlin and conducting cyberattacks on the German government. So, are the sanctions working? "Yes, the sanctions stop the aggressor and they should be kept", says Prof. Olexiy Haran, Research Director, DIF.
Independent studies suggest real GDP growth was just 1.2 per cent last year and will be around 1.6 per cent this year and 1.8 per cent in 2021. That compares with 3.8 per cent in 2012, and Mr Putin has ordered his government to find ways to raise it.
Source: ALJAZEERA
