The relations between Russia and the European Union have approached the "moment of truth," when the vector of their long-term future development needs to be defined, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said Tuesday, Oct 14, according to RIA Novosti.

"During our previous contacts we mentioned that relations between Russia and the European Union have approached a kind of moment of truth, when we need to make a decision about the long-term cooperation and answer the question: are we strategic partners, or do we still remain geopolitical rivals?" he said.

Talks on easing sanctions against Russia imposed over the conflict in Ukraine could begin in the next few weeks, but more measures are possible if there is no progress over a ceasefire deal, the U.S. Deputy National Security Adviser Tony Blinken said recently.

The European Union and the United States have imposed economic sanctions on Russia, with the West accusing Moscow of providing pro-Russian fighters in eastern Ukraine with troops and weapons. Russia denies the accusation.