Dutch FM dismisses calls for more sanctions against Russia

THE HAGUE, April 16 (Xinhua) -- Dutch Foreign Affairs Minister Stef Blok on Monday has called for a ceasefire in the Syrian civil war and dismissed calls for further sanctions against Russia.

Blok made this remark to Dutch RTLnieuws while attending the European foreign ministers' meeting in Luxemburg to discuss the situation in Syria.

For Blok, a negotiated settlement in Syria brokered by the UN Security Council is needed to end the conflict. "The only way out of this is through negotiations," he said.

On Saturday, the United States, France and Britain attacked targets in Syria in retaliation for the alleged chemical attack in the Syrian city of Douma.

Washington has vowed new sanctions against Russia for supporting Syrian government. "With or without sanctions, parties have to come to the table: our commitment is first a cease-fire, then help and a political solution," said Blok. Enditem