Merkel: Implementation of Minsk agreements leaves much to be desired

Merkel said this in Sommerinterview program on ARD TV channel, an Ukrinform correspondent in Berlin reports.

"We have the Minsk agreements, but their implementation leaves much to be desired,” Merkel said.

At the same time, she stressed that it was "right and important" to continue making efforts to settle the Ukrainian conflict. The Chancellor noted that much work had been done in this area in summer "and much is still to be done next week."

When asked whether it is timely to speak about lifting the sanctions, Merkel said: "unfortunately, no, taking into account the progress of implementation of the Minsk agreements." However, she assured that "this issue will certainly be on the agenda if the parties move forward."

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