G7 leaders affirm sanctions against Russia

GARMISCH-PARTENKIRCHEN , Germany, June 8 (UPI) -- G7 leaders gathering in Germany remained firm in support of Ukraine and against Russian involvement in a separatist movement there.

The meeting of heads of state from seven industrialized countries, in Garmisch-Partenkirchen, Germany, specifically excluded Russia, for the second consecutive year, to protest Russian involvement in Crimea and Ukraine. The group affirmed its support of economic sanctions against Russia Sunday.

Speaking at the Schloss Elmau resort, where the leaders are convening, European Council President Donald Tusk, former Polish Prime Minister, said Sunday, "Our group is not only the political or economic group of interest, but first of all it is a community of values, and that is why Russia is not among us here today, and will not be invited as long as it behaves aggressively against Ukraine and other countries."

German Chancellor Angela Merkel told German public broadcaster ARD that Russia should stay out of the G7's "community of values," adding, "There is a barrier at the moment and I cannot really see how it can be overcome."

As early as May it was made clear Rusian President Vladimir Putin would not be an invitee, although Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said at the time Russia had not been excluded from what was known as the G8.

"The G8 is an informal club, no one gives out membership cards and no one can expel members", Lavrov said.

Leaders of the United States, the United Kingdom, Italy, Canada, Germany, France and Japan will conclude their two-day meeting Monday.