An aggressor country, no matter what its name, has to pay a high price for violating international norms and law. In this regard, it is necessary to consolidate the whole world to strengthen sanctions and other measures that will force the aggressor to respect the sovereignty of the states. Prime Minister of Ukraine Volodymyr Groysman issued this statement during a meeting with Minister for Foreign Affairs of Germany Heiko Maas.

"We praise the reaction of the world and Germany to the aggression that was committed against our military personnel. We see that the situation in the Sea of Azov is very complicated. Since May, we have been seeing Russia's actions on blocking of Mariupol and Berdyansk ports, the complication of vessel traffic. We see this as Russia's next step aimed to occupy the Sea of Azov, " Volodymyr Groysman stressed.

"Russia must immediately release the sailors and ensure free passage for ships", Heiko Maas stressed. "The annexation of  Crimea has become not only a violation of international law, but also a threat to international development. "

The German Foreign Minister assured that Berlin stands side by side with Ukraine and accumulates efforts of partners to de-escalate situation in Donbas and in the Sea of Azov. In his turn,  the Prime Minister thanked for a clear and staunchest position.

"The aggressor state, whatever it may be, should pay a high price for abusing international norms and law. We expect the consolidation of partners to shape mechanisms for strengthening sanctions and other measures that will force the aggressor to respect the sovereignty of the states ... Our partners must see what is happening on the territory of (the Sea of Azov) ",Volodymyr Groysman underscored.