German Foreign Minister opposes Russia's return to G7

German Foreign Minister Heiko Maas said he is against Russia's participation in the G7 meetings until the Ukrainian issue was resolved.

In an interview with the Rheinische Post, he noted that "the annexation of Crimea and the intervention in eastern Ukraine" became the reasons for the expelling Russia from the G8. Until these issues are resolved, in his opinion, there is "no chance" for her return.

The head of the German Foreign Ministry admitted that recently in relations with Russia, "difficulties have constantly arisen," but said: "We also know that we need Russia to solve problems such as the conflicts in Syria, Libya and Ukraine. This will work not against Russia, but only together with Russia. "

"But Russia must also make its own contribution, everything is happening very slowly in Ukraine," the diplomat added.

According to the minister, in general, there is no need for the expansion of the G7, as previously proposed by US President Donald Trump.

"The G7 and G20 are two reasonably coordinated formats. We don't need a G11 or a G12," Maas said.

Earlier, Trump proposed new, expanded G7 format,  inviting Russia, India, Australia and South Korea there.