The European Union needs to adopt its sixth package of sanctions against Russia soon, according to France's Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs Catherine Colonna.

Speaking during a joint press conference in Berlin with her German counterpart, Colonna stressed the need “to strengthen our support to Ukraine.” “We have to quickly adopt the sixth package of sanctions which will foresee the progressive end of the imports of Russian oil,” said Colonna, who was appointed to her role last week.

Despite opposition from countries like Hungary, Colonna said she is “optimistic” that the package will be approved and commended the “remarkable” unity shown by the EU in holding Russia accountable.

“We have to continue because it is this unity that is our strength,” Colonna emphasized.