According to Minister for Foreign Affairs Timo Soini, the sanctions against Russia are not cancelled: there is no disagreement over the issue in the EU. Minister Soini says that EU Foreign Ministers are dissatisfied because the situation between Ukraine and Russia does not seem to improve. He adds that Finland’s agriculture is not in trouble due to EU’s sanctions but due to Russia’s counter sanctions. Furthermore, Minister Soini says he is concerned over Syria and the growth of IS. He also fears that once the border to Greece is closed, refugees start flowing into Lambedusa. Now, it is important to convey the message that only those who are in real need of asylum are taken into Europe.

Media:  Kauppalehti 

Date: 15.3.2016

Journalist: Kaija Ahtela

Main source: Minister for Foreign Affairs Timo Soini