European Union heads of state decided to expand sanctions against Turkey over its actions in the Mediterranean Sea – At an EU summit in Brussels, the European Parliament adopted a resolution calling for tough measures in response to Ankara’s policies.

“The EU remains committed to protecting the interests of the union and member states, as well as maintaining regional stability. In this regard, the summit instructs the EU Council to adopt an additional blacklist based on the November 11, 2019 decision regarding restrictive measures due to Turkey’s illegal activities in the Mediterranean Sea,” the text of the statement reads.
In addition, EU diplomatic chief Josep Borrell was instructed to present other options for expanding sanctions against Ankara by the March summit.

The document stresses that “Turkey, unfortunately, continues its unilateral and provocative actions, and has increased its rhetoric against the EU, its members and European leaders. At the same time, the EU reiterates its “strategic interest in developing mutually beneficial relations with Turkey,” and notes that “the proposal of a positive agenda” for Ankara is still on the table.

Finally, the summit statement says that the EU intends to coordinate its actions and decisions on Turkey and the situation in the Mediterranean with U.S. authorities.