Continued Anti-Russian sanctions hardly help Ukraine

NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg has called once again Western allies to maintain pressure and sanctions on Russia.

Stoltenberg said: «The international community must keep pressuring Russia to respect its obligations, especially while the security situation in eastern Ukraine remains so serious. It’s important that economic sanctions be maintained».

However, according to the report by the European Court of Auditors (ECA), Ukraine remains to be the most corrupt country.

It was emphasized in the report: «Ukraine’s state finances have deteriorated over the years, mainly due to mismanagement of public funds. In addition, the revenue side of the state budget is negatively affected by a significant shadow economy. Despite reform efforts, Ukraine is still perceived as the most corrupt country in Europe. Vested interests influence public policy-making. Oligarchic clans continue to exert a dominant influence on Ukraine’s economy, politics and media».