Fico threatens to block new EU sanctions against Russia and names condition
Photo: Robert Fico, Prime Minister of Slovakia (Getty Images)
Slovakia may veto new EU sanctions against Russia if they "threaten" a peaceful resolution of Russia's war against Ukraine, states Prime Minister of Slovakia Robert Fico, according to Noviny.
"We cannot insist on sanctions at any cost. There may come a time when we say we do not agree, or I think this contradicts the peaceful steps currently being taken. If we perceive an attempt to introduce further sanctions as something that undermines the peace process, we are ready to veto them," Fico said during a speech at the European Committee of the Slovak Parliament.
The prime minister suggested that the EU sanctions list, which includes over 2,400 individuals and entities, could be reduced in the coming weeks or months.
In his view, it is "very dangerous" for the European Union and the countries that form its core if the bloc "remains the only one that wants to fight." However, he added that he could not prevent other European countries from providing military aid to Ukraine.
Fico also stated that he does not support the participation of Slovak soldiers in a potential peacekeeping mission in Ukraine. He believes that peacekeeping forces should consist only of soldiers from countries that are not direct neighbors of Ukraine and Russia.
"Slovakia is not interested in such a mission," the prime minister said.
It is worth noting that the introduction of new sanctions against Russia requires consensus among all 27 EU member states.
EU sanctions against Russia
On February 24, the EU Council approved the 16th package of sanctions against Russia. It targets, in particular, Russia's shadow fleet and banks that circumvent restrictions.
On the same day, EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas emphasized that the bloc has begun working on the 17th package of sanctions. However, it is not yet known when it will be introduced.
