WASHINGTON (AP) — The United States and European leaders say they’re prepared to intensify sanctions against Russia unless it moves to de-escalate the crisis in Ukraine.
The Group of Seven world leaders say in a statement that Russia hasn’t changed course despite the downing of a Malaysia Airlines jet. They’re calling the downing a watershed and say it should have led Russia to stop the flow of weapons and militants from Russia into Ukraine.
The leaders say they have “grave concern” about Russia’s actions. They say if Russia chooses de-escalation, the sanctions will be removed, but will otherwise be stepped up.
The statement comes the day after the U.S. and the European Union announced new economic sanctions on Russia.
The Group of Seven was re-arranged earlier this year to exclude Russia.
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