As Moscow blacklists some MEPs, Parliament calls for counter-action against Russian propaganda and its interference in EU democracies.

Fresh rap for Russia over Ukraine

Ukraine’s low-level conflict,  marked by sporadic violence in the east,

came under focus in Parliament  during plenary.

This, after Moscow announced a visa ban  for 19 MEPs.

This is not only disrespect to the European  Parliament, but an insult to the EU as a whole.

A hefty majority passed a resolution  calling for EU unity

and demanding counter-measures  against Kremlin propaganda.

It is right that Russia was excluded  from the G7 meeting this week,

because politicians and people  need to understand

that if you break international law, you  can't contribute to international law-making.

There was support for Moscow  from the far right.

But more still across the groups  for a measured rapprochement

Until then sanctions should remain,  says the MEP steering the resolution.

Pre-conditions first,  incentives later.

We hear from Ukraine  that there is still a flow of weapons.

The border is not controlled, so the Minsk  agreements are not being held.

The question now is  whether Europe stands firm.

That will become clear during a summit  of the EU heads later in June

before they’re due to decide  on the sanctions regime.