Germany’s Merkel has 'very greatest interest' in ending Russia sanctions

While a number of Western officials are beginning to soften their stance on the sanctions against Moscow, hold-outs remain. As recently as August 19, Merkel was among the rank-and-file who argued in favor of continuing the roadblocks to global economic and cultural cooperation, Sputnik writes.

But on Monday, the German Chancellor appeared to reverse her position, saying she has "the very greatest interest in stopping sanctions." "As soon as we progress in the Minsk agreements, we will loosen the sanctions," she told reporters, according to the International Business Times. Currently serving her third term, Merkel has not made an official announcement on whether she intends to run for a fourth. Many German citizens are opposed to her remaining in power beyond 2017. Recent polling suggests that half of the population is against an ongoing Merkel administration. Part of Merkel’s lack of popularity can be attributed to the migrant crisis, but her hardline stance against Russia has also played a role.