We need further sanctions against those who have violated democratic principles or violated human rights in Belarus, "von der Leyen tweeted following developments in Belarus following Sunday's presidential election.

"I am confident that the discussion during today's Foreign Ministers' Meeting will show our strong support for the right of the Belarusian people to fundamental freedoms and democracy," she added.

Sweden demands sanctions

The Riksdag's EU Committee agreed today that Sweden's line ahead of Friday's Foreign Ministers' meeting is to demand targeted sanctions against Belarus. This is what Foreign Minister Ann Linde (S) tells Ekot.

- We believe that the list of individuals subject to sanctions against Belarus should be expanded. This means travel restrictions and the freezing of assets. We must impose those sanctions on individuals who are directly responsible for the violence, for unfounded arrests and for cheating in connection with the presidential election. I am very happy that the EU committee gave me support for that direction, says Ann Linde to Ekot.