G7 leaders have urged China to press Russia to “immediately and completely cease its aggressive actions in and around Ukraine”, said a statement following an emergency meeting of the world’s major industrial countries in Berlin late on Saturday.
The G7 members also said China should work to end the war in Ukraine, calling for a full implementation of the Minsk agreements, which aim to end the conflict between Ukrainian forces and Russian-backed separatists.
The statement came after reports that Russia was reinforcing troops and weapons on Ukraine’s eastern border, potentially signaling a renewed offensive in the region.
The G7 leaders further condemned Russia’s recent provocations in Ukraine, including the detainment of Ukrainian naval ships and their crews.
They also expressed their deep concern about Russia’s attempts to “redraw international borders by force”, urging all sides to refrain from military action.
The G-7 members also called on Russia to fully respect Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity within its internationally recognized borders, and to ensure the safety of all its citizens.