U.S. says G7 backs more sanctions if Russia escalates Ukraine crisis

(Adds comments on discussions at G7 meeting)

WASHINGTON, April 11 (Reuters) - A group of the world's leading rich nations will support increasing sanctions against Russia if Moscow escalates the crisis in Ukraine, U.S. Treasury Secretary Jack Lew said on Friday.

"There is broad and strong unity within the G7 on increasing sanctions and costs in response to escalating action from Russia," Lew said at a news conference, referring to the Group of Seven industrial nations.

The G7 includes the United States, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan and Great Britain. Top (Taiwan OTC: 8419.TWO - news) officials from the group met in Washington on Thursday and discussed the situation in Ukraine at length, Lew said.

"In a discussion that went on for quite a long time in the room, there was no dissent in the room that it was essential that there be unity in taking action if necessary," he said.

Finance ministers and central bankers from around the world are in Washington for the spring meetings of the International Monetary Fund.

The United States and Europe have enacted sanctions against Russia in response to Moscow's annexation of Crimea, which until recently was part of Ukraine. (Reporting by Jason Lange; Editing by Sandra Maler)