Germany backs France on Russia warship contract

Germany defended France’s plan to deliver a warship to Russia in October 2014 despite US criticism of the move.

Chancellor Angela Merkel said on the 4 June 2014 in Brussels that interruption of delivery might only come if the EU adopts “stage three” sanctions - economic sanctions - against Russia.

However, she mentioned that the EU was not launching stage three because Russia did not stop Ukraine’s 25 May presidential elections from going ahead.

• Primary Source

ESO: Background information: Putin defies West with Crimea visit / EU foreign ministers to raise pressure on Russia over Ukraine http://www.europeansources.info/record/putin-defies-west-with-crimea-visit-eu-foreign-ministers-to-raise-pressure-on-russia-over-ukraine/

ESO: Background information: [Russia: economic situation] Economic guru: Russia is weak, but the EU isn’t united http://www.europeansources.info/record/russia-economic-situation-economic-guru-russia-is-weak-but-the-eu-isnt-united/

BBC News, 06.06.14: France defends sale of Mistral assault ships to Russia http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-europe-27729578

BBC News, 05.06.14: Obama warns France on Russia Mistral ship deal http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-europe-27722256

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