EU refuses to impose new sanctions against Russia

On May 27, members of the informal EU summit in Brussels decided not to impose new sanctions against Russia. The officials pointed out the chances to de-escalate the situation in Ukraine.

"We note that the European Commission and the European External Action Service are currently engaged in preparatory works on possible targeted measures, and we agreed to continue preparations to take new possible measures on this basis, should events so require," a statement from the European leaders said.

Referring to the "recent developments," the heads of states and governments of the EU again called Russia to take measures for the implementation of the joint Geneva Declaration to stop violence, disarm all armed groups and amnesty all those who voluntarily surrendered weapons and had not committed serious crimes.

"We support the legally elected new leadership of Ukraine," the head of the European Commission Jose Manuel Barroso said at a press conference following the informal dinner.

Barroso listed three areas for the future development of Ukraine. He stressed out the need for progress on constitutional reform, conduct national dialogue and improve the country's energy security.