Germany not planning to lift sanctions against Russia

"In recent weeks, we have noted almost daily violations of armistice and ceasefire, which have resulted in numerous casualties on both sides," he stressed. In addition, all 28 EU Member States share the view that the issue of lifting the sanctions may be raised only after the full implementation of the Minsk agreements. As reported, the European Union early July decided to extend economic sanctions against Russia for its actions in Ukraine for another six months, until January 31, 2017.