EU decision on new sanctions on Russia by Friday

BRUSSELS - The incoming European Union (EU) foreign policy chief Federica Mogherini on Tuesday said EU leaders will decide on new sanctions on Russia by Friday.

"The package (of further sanctions) will be presented by tomorrow from the commission. The Coreper (permanent representatives committee) will meet again tomorrow, Thursday and by Friday a decision will be adopted," Mogherini told a joint news conference with Elmar Brok, Chair of the European Parliament Committee on Foreign Affairs.

Mogherini was appointed by the European Council on Saturday as the new High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy.

She will officially commence her duties on Nov 1, 2014 and serve until Oct 31, 2019, in line with other EU Commissioners.