G7 warns Russia of sanctions if it refuses to cease fire – Reuters
Photo: G7 threatens Russia with sanctions if it does not cease fire (Getty Images)
G7 countries warn Russia that new sanctions may be imposed if Moscow refuses to agree to a ceasefire, according to Reuters and The Guardian.
The G7 statement still requires approval from foreign ministers at a meeting before the negotiations conclude.
"G7 members called for Russia to reciprocate by agreeing to a ceasefire on equal terms and implementing it fully," the ministers’ statement said.
In the communiqué, G7 members emphasized the need for reliable "security arrangements" to ensure the ceasefire between Ukraine and Russia.
"They emphasized that any ceasefire must be respected and underscored the need for robust and credible security arrangements to ensure that Ukraine can deter and defend against any renewed acts of aggression," the statement added.
The G7 includes the United Kingdom, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, and the United States. From March 12 to 14, G7 foreign ministers gathered in La Malbaie, Canada. Canada currently holds the G7 presidency.
Earlier, Reuters reported that new sanctions against Russia would not be mentioned in the final communiqué of the G7 ministers' meeting. However, the joint statement was expected to highlight the need for reliable security guarantees for Ukraine to ensure compliance with the ceasefire.
