EU holds emergency meeting on Ukraine and Iraq crises

World Today

European Union foreign ministers met in a emergency meeting on Friday to discuss the ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and Iraq.

EU leaders welcomed the resignation of Iraqi Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki, saying it paved the way for a potential political solution in that country.

The Czech Republic and the Netherlands joined France in agreeing to send military equipment to aid Kurdish forces.

After warnings that the Islamic State could be a threat to more countries than just Iraq and Syria, humanitarian aid will also be increased.

At least 1,700 Islamist fighters in Iraq and Syria are believed to be EU nationals. This has sparked fears of domestic attacks once those fighter return home.

Relations between the EU and Russia have continued to deteriorate as a result of the crisis in Ukraine. European officials said they were alarmed at reports of the Russian military trucks crossing into Ukraine.

CCTV’s Jack Barton reports.

EU holds emergency meeting on Ukraine and Iraq crises

European Union foreign ministers met in a emergency meeting on Friday to discuss the ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and Iraq.