The current President of Ukraine Petro Poroshenko had a phone conversation with the Chancellor of Germany Angela Merkel. During this conversation, the parties discussed ways to enhance pressure on Russia, as the press office of the President reported.
“In the context of the consideration by the International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea in Hamburg of the issue of the release of 24 Ukrainian sailors; particular attention was paid to further increase the pressure on Moscow with a view to accelerating the release of all Ukrainian hostages illegally detained by Russia. The parties also discussed the development of the situation in Donbas in light of Russia's latest provocative moves. Petro Poroshenko urged Berlin to support the strengthening of sanctions against Moscow in response to the so-called passport decrees,” the message reads.
Angela Merkel expressed hope that the new authority in Ukraine will adhere to the principle of continuity in foreign policy primarily concerning the EU and the development of the strategic partnership between the countries. Germany’s Chancellor also assured that Ukraine would stay in focus of the EU and Germany's policy.