During the EP plenary session (24-27/10) in Strasbourg, MEPs debate on the Conclusions of the European Council meeting of 20 and 21 October 2016 on Russia.&nbsp;Statements by Donald TUSK, President of the European Council, Manfred WEBER (EPP, DE), and Syed KAMALL (ECR, UK).

Strasbourg

debate

plenary session

EU - Russia (T)

WEBER, Manfred (EPP, DE)

KAMALL, Syed (ECR, UK)

TUSK, Donald (PL)

European Council meeting 20-21 October 2016 (T)

Conclusions of the European Council meeting of 20 and 21 October 2016: Russia

SOUNDBITE (English), Donald TUSK, President of the European Council,  We also had a discussion about Russia. Leaders shared individual experiences of several countries, ranging from disinformation campaigns, cyber-attacks, interference into political processes in the EU and elsewhere, to airspace violations and the funding of community conflicts in Ukraine, the Balkans and further afield.

SOUNDBITE (English), Donald TUSK, President of the European Council,  Overall, we had a sober assessment of this reality, and no illusions. Increasing tensions with Russia is not our aim, we are simply reacting to steps taken by Russia, who is working with considerable energy and focus to weaken and divide the EU. Our long term objective remains to find a modus vivendi.

SOUNDBITE (English), Donald TUSK, President of the European Council,  We also discussed Syria. We condemn the attacks by the Syrian regime and its allies, notably Russia, on civilians in Alep. The EU is calling for an end to the atrocities and an immediate cessation of hostilities. We asked the High Representative to pursue further diplomatic and humanitarian efforts. If these atrocities continue, all available options will be considered. The Syrians need an immediate and permanent cease fire and reopening of humanitarian aid corridors.

SOUNDBITE (German), Manfred WEBER (EPP, DE),  On Russia we clearly have challenges too, they consider war as a legitimate way to pursue political goals. There are hundreds dying every day in Alep, the Council was supposed to answer this, but it was a very weak response. We have been discounting the possible instruments that we should use, or at least should not eliminate from the outset. We have the instruments, there are elements like our gas provision, and other aspects that we could use. It seems that it&rsquo;s the only language that Putin understands, the language of strength. So I would like to see more strength from the European Council.

SOUNDBITE (English), Syed KAMALL (ECR, UK),  It is quite clear, the answer is in your question; you asked: &ldquo;Should the Council impose sanctions?&rdquo; The answer is a clear yes. Sanctions haven&rsquo;t began to work properly yet, they are starting to work, and actually we should not let up, we should have imposed more sanctions and we should be looking at whatever instruments we have. We know we are not alone, if we are to show true unity in the West, we have to use what instruments we have, and we can use sanctions.