Slovakia will no longer obstruct the ratification of the EU’s 18th package of sanctions against Russia, confirmed Prime Minister Robert Fico.
This decision follows multiple instances of Slovakia vetoing the sanctions to secure assurances against potential damages linked to the EU’s plan to cease Russian gas imports by 2028.
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On Thursday, Prime Minister Robert Fico announced that Slovakia had negotiated as much as possible at this juncture.
“At this point, it would be counterproductive to continue blocking the 18th sanctions package tomorrow,” in a video message on social media.
EU ambassadors are scheduled to convene today to endorse the new sanctions, according to a Reuters report, citing sources.
The European Commission’s proposed sanctions from last month target Russia’s energy revenue, banking sector and military industry in response to the country’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022.
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By GlobalDataThe measures include a floating price cap on Russian oil and restrictions on dealings with Russia’s Nord Stream gas pipelines and banks involved in evading sanctions.
Slovakia’s previous vetoes were attempts to extract concessions regarding the EU’s broader strategy to phase out Russian oil and gas, which does not require unanimous EU approval.
Despite its vetoes, Slovakia has maintained energy imports from Russia, including a gas contract valid until 2034, and has often adopted pro-Russian stances on Ukraine.
On Tuesday, Fico revealed that Slovakia had secured commitments from the Commission, including support in the event of gas shortages or price surges, as well as assistance in legal disputes with Gazprom.
The Commission said in a letter that it would intervene in potential litigation and clarify the use of an “emergency break” if gas prices soar due to limited supply during the phase-out.
Additionally, the Commission has pledged to devise a mechanism to lessen the financial burden of cross-border gas and oil tariffs for Slovakia.
Meanwhile, Malta, which had reservations about the Russian oil price cap, has also agreed to back the new sanctions.
