The sanctions imposed against Russia because of crisis in the east of Ukraine should be extended because of the lack of progress in the implementation of the Minsk agreement, German chancellor Angela Merkel told reporters following talks with French President Francois Hollande in Berlin.

In turn, Hollande said he supported the idea of extending sanctions against Russia because of the conflict in eastern Ukraine, DW reported.

Besides, the French president said Moscow is responsible for the events in Syria. He urged to help residents of Aleppo as soon as possible.