The European Union has called on Russia to take concrete steps to de-escalate tensions in the conflict over Ukraine.

“We call on Russia to take concrete and clear steps towards de-escalation.

The European Union cannot endlessly make diplomatic efforts on the one hand, while the other side is increasing its troops, ”DW quoted European Council President

as saying in the European Parliament.

European Commission President

has said the EU must remain vigilant.

Despite Moscow's statements, "NATO has not yet seen signs of a reduction in Russian troops," she explained.

The day before, after a week of tensions, Russia announced the beginning of the withdrawal of troops from the border with Ukraine, and on February 16 - the end of exercises in the annexed Crimea and the withdrawal of equipment and soldiers who participated in the maneuvers.

Von der Leyen stressed that "the way of cooperation between Russia and us is still possible."

EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security

said the EU was ready to take part in the talks, but called on the EU to be prepared to respond with sanctions in the event of a Russian invasion of Ukraine.

In an interview with AFP on February 15,

, chairman of the Conservative faction in the European Parliament , called for a clear outline of possible sanctions against Russian President

.

"It is important to make Putin's price clear.

The Nord Stream-2 project must be stopped in the event of an invasion.

The exclusion of Russian banks from the Western payment system also cannot remain taboo. "

Meanwhile,

, co-chair of the left-wing faction in the European Parliament, spoke negatively about the "inappropriate idea of ​​further NATO enlargement to the east", saying it was not destabilizing in Europe but security.