Slovakia blocks 18th EU sanctions package against Russia again
Slovakia blocks 18th EU sanctions package against Russia again (Illustrative photo: Getty Images)
European Union ambassadors once again failed to reach an agreement on the 18th package of sanctions against Russia during today's meeting due to a blockade by Slovakia, according to RFE/RL correspondent Rikard Jozwiak.
"Still no agreement on the EU's sanctions package on Russia. Could potentially be agreed by EU ambassadors on Fri. Slovakia is still blocking," Jozwiak wrote.
Slovakia blocks sanctions against Russia
On June 10, the European Commission presented a new package of sanctions against Russia. The measures are aimed at targeting Moscow's revenues from energy exports, banking, and the military-industrial sector.
However, on June 23, Slovakia and Hungary refused to support the new package, citing their reluctance to lose access to cheap Russian oil and gas.
Later, Slovak Foreign Minister Juraj Blanár stated that Bratislava would lift its veto if the EU provided guarantees to reduce the negative impact of cutting off Russian energy sources.
Recently, Jozwiak reported that the sanctions could be adopted soon, as an agreement with Slovakia had seemingly been reached.
