The United Sates has decided to extend sanctions against Russian for one more year. According to the White House, the decision was made by President Barack Obama, in consideration of Russia's role in the Ukraine crisis.
The Russian Foreign Ministry says the sanctions are trying to undermine the peace process in Ukraine. It says signs show the crisis is easing in some way.
Starting last year, Western countries imposed sanctions against Russia, citing Russia's involvement in the Ukraine crisis. The sanctions cover financial, resource, and military sectors.