German foreign minister Johann Wadephul has called on the EU to strengthen its security in all areas and keep up pressure on Russia, as attacks in the Black Sea become more frequent. He spoke today in Berlin, at the German foreign ministry, at a press conference with Bulgarian foreign minister Velislava Petrova.
This report follows our earlier story on Bulgaria's decision to summon Russian ambassador Eleonora Mitrofanova over a new attack on ships near Bulgarian waters. Drones hit two merchant ships then, and one of them sank.
Wadephul backed the decision. Bulgaria has sent the "right signal", he said.
The German minister said Russian strikes threaten Ukrainian grain exports. This hurts Ukraine's economy and food security in other parts of the world. The effects of the war reach far beyond the front line, he added.
Wadephul called for a ceasefire deal that would guarantee free passage for civilian ships in the Black Sea. The deal must bind Russia and Ukraine and, if possible, other affected countries.
Germany and Bulgaria take part in the European Sky Shield programme, which fills gaps in air defence. Wadephul said it shows how the EU can strengthen its shared security.
The minister also welcomed the EU's decision to add another 1,600 Russian individuals and companies to its sanctions list. He said EU countries must keep up economic pressure on Russia to strengthen European security. Only firmness makes Russia ready for talks and opens the way to a fair and lasting peace, he said.
"I am convinced that gifts only encourage Putin to carry on in the same spirit," Wadephul said.
The German minister praised Bulgaria's European progress as it joined the eurozone this year. He said he is glad that "European integration is not yet complete", and spoke of the "strategic opportunity and necessity" of EU enlargement.