With specific reference to the Russian sanctions and the associated Ukrainian sanctions, the purpose of the sanction, working with our partners, is to put pressure on the Government of Russia in the face of its actions in Ukraine in respect of Ukraine's sovereignty. Practically speaking, that would relate to the fulfillment of its commitments under the Minsk process, and with respect to its illegal annexation of Crimea. That is the purpose of the sanctions.
On November 21st, 2016. See this statement in context.