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Aim of Sanctions Isn't to Undermine Russian Economy, German Foreign Minister Says

Germany's Foreign Minister Frank-Walter Steinmeier delivers a speech at the lower house of parliament Bundestag in Berlin on Nov. 26, 2014.

The goal of sanctions against Russia over the Ukraine crisis must not be to wear down Russia economically, German Foreign Minister Frank-Walter Steinmeier said Thursday.

"Should it be our way of thinking and our goal to put down Russia economically?" asked Steinmeier at a conference organized by the Sueddeutsche Zeitung daily in Berlin.

"My clear answer is: No, that is, was and should not be the reason for sanctions," he added.

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