EU summit possible on 'new sanctions' against Russia

Fabius says 'great violence' a rising concern in Ukraine

(ANSA) - Luxembourg, April 14 - A summit of European Union leaders could be called for next week to debate possible new sanctions against Russia, French Foreign Minister Laurent Fabius said Monday.

"It is clear that Russia has a responsibility (in the) great violence (in the eastern Ukraine, and Europe must act,)" he said outside a meeting of EU foreign ministers. If necessary, a meeting of leaders could be organized for next week, said Fabius Meanwhile, talks are planned for Thursday in Geneva involving the United States, Russia, Ukraine and the EU.

European States have been divided over how deep sanctions against Russia, a major energy sources for parts of Europe, should go to punish Moscow for its role in the Ukraine crisis. Some are calling for more diplomacy while others say the current sanctions, including a list of Russian and Ukraine officials facing EU asset freezes and travel bans, should be intensified.