Douglas Alexander MP, Labour’s Shadow Foreign Secretary, speaking ahead of four-way talks on Ukraine tomorrow, said:
“Ahead of tomorrow’s four-way talks, it is vital that all sides work to de-escalate the dangerous situation in Eastern Ukraine and avoid further violent confrontation.
"Given the volatility of the current situation, President Putin must now make a clear statement denouncing the latest lawless violence in Eastern Ukraine.
"The latest extension of existing EU sanctions against Russia was a welcome step, but the UK must be ready, along with EU allies, to consider implementing the third tier of EU sanctions in order to put further pressure on Russia if it fails to take the necessary steps to help resolve the ongoing crisis.”