Portuguese Foreign Minister Paulo Rangel confirmed on Monday that the European Union has decided to go ahead with the 14th package of sanctions against Russia. Speaking to reporters from Luxembourg, Paulo Rangel stressed that although it was agreed to start the new sanctions package, “there is no precise knowledge about its scope.” The minister explained that the scope of the sanctions will be addressed technically throughout this week.
The Portuguese Minister also highlighted the “great importance” in the “supply of arms” to Ukraine, highlighting the “strengthened commitment” in this regard.
In the context of the situation in the Middle East, Paulo Rangel highlighted the need to “reduce tensions” between Israel and Iran, highlighting the “consensus” on the importance of “all efforts” to avoid escalation of the conflict. “It is clear that the situation in the Middle East is very important,” the official said, stressing that “we are doing all the diplomatic work to avoid any further reaction from either side that could lead to an escalation of the conflict.”
Paulo Rangel reported that it was also agreed to “extend sanctions on Iran”, which now include “not only drones, but also ballistic missiles and their components”, adding that “there was an easy agreement” on this point.
Other topics highlighted included the situation in the Gaza Strip and the need for a ceasefire. Paulo Rangel stressed the “strong agreement” on the importance of an “immediate ceasefire” and “the necessity of delivering humanitarian aid.” “The idea that there has to be an immediate ceasefire is the only way to get humanitarian aid. I think there is a lot of consensus on that.”
The meeting was held in Luxembourg in the context of strengthening support for Ukraine in the face of Russian attacks on its cities and vital infrastructure. Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba and Defense Minister Rustam Omerov participated in the meeting via video. Portugal was represented by the Minister of State and Foreign Affairs, Paulo Rangel, and the Secretary of State for National Defense, Ana Isabel Xavier.
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