Bernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael)
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558. To ask the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the extent to which the situation in the Ukraine continues to feature in discussions at European Union level, with particular reference to the need to maximise efforts for lasting ceasefire and peace; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15688/15]

Charles Flanagan (Laois-Offaly, Fine Gael)
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The EU continues to closely monitor developments in Ukraine and EU leaders held an in-depth discussion on the situation at the March European Council meeting. The full implementation of the agreements reached in Minsk on 12 February, including a lasting ceasefire, remains the focus of the EU's efforts, as it offers the best chance to create the conditions necessary for a peaceful resolution to the conflict in eastern Ukraine. EU Heads of State and Government have agreed that any decisions in relation to EU sanctions should be linked to the complete implementation of the Minsk agreements.

The OSCE has reported an improvement in the overall security situation in Ukraine since the peace deal was agreed in Minsk. However, I am very concerned at reports of an increase in violations of the ceasefire in recent days. This was discussed by the Foreign Ministers of Germany, France, Ukraine and Russia at a meeting in Berlin last week. The Ministers called on all sides to stop the fighting, demonstrate their commitment to fully implement the ceasefire and complete the withdrawal of heavy weapons.

It is important that these calls are heeded so that progress can be achieved on other key elements of the Minsk peace deal. It is also imperative that the OSCE Mission is given complete and unfettered access to all parts of the conflict zone in order to be able to verify the full extent of heavy weapons withdrawal.

It is clear that the situation remains fragile and we will continue to monitor developments on the ground. As agreed by the European Council, the EU stands ready to take action as necessary in ongoing efforts to ensure a sustainable and peaceful resolution to this crisis.