EU says it wants to see proof of Russia halting aggression in Ukraine
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Ukrainian rescuers working to extinguish a fire at a sewing factory in Ukraine’s Kharkiv, following a Russian missile attack on April 18.
PHOTO: AFP
BRUSSELS – The European Union on April 19 reacted cautiously to Russian President Vladimir Putin's declaration of a unilateral 30-hour Easter ceasefire in Ukraine, saying Moscow could stop the war immediately if it wanted to.
“Russia has a track record as an aggressor, so first we need to see any actual halt of the aggression and clear deeds for a lasting ceasefire,” said Ms Anitta Hipper, the European Commission’s lead spokeswoman for foreign affairs and security.
Ms Hipper added that it had been more than a month since Ukraine agreed to an unconditional ceasefire.
“Russia could stop this war at any moment if it really wanted to... We continue to support Ukraine for a long, just and comprehensive peace.” REUTERS
