European Commission President Ursula von Der Lane said on Monday that there were tensions with the UK over post-Brexit fishing and the border with Northern Ireland. Border problems are caused by the United Kingdom’s exit from the European Union, not by the Northern Ireland Protocol, which is the “solution to the problem”. The statement was made at a press conference after the European Council meeting.

Following the first day of meetings with EU heads of state and government, Von der Lane said the common goal was to “do all we can to reduce tensions” with the United Kingdom.

When asked about relations with Russia, the leader pointed out that there have not been many attempts to improve the problem in recent times. At the ceremony, a report on the engagement between Brussels and Moscow was announced, in which the group should take a more firm stand on the issue. Von der Lane also pointed to Russia’s provocative actions against member states and allies such as Ukraine.

The council announced sanctions against Belarus yesterday after the plane with its rival Raman Pratasevic was diverted to its route following the arrest of an activist at the Minsk airport. Ryaner’s flight between Vilnius and Athens has been called an “attack on democracy and European sovereignty.” Von der Lane said sanctions would be imposed on “those involved and responsible for economic activities.”

In addition, it includes a ban on Belarusian airlines on European airspace and a recommendation that European companies in the region not enter Belarus territory, as some companies have already announced voluntarily during the day.