Slovakia threatens to block new EU sanctions against Russia over energy concerns
Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico (Getty Images)
Slovakia will not support the European Union's 18th package of sanctions against Russia unless the European Commission provides a solution for how the country can cope with the consequences of phasing out Russian energy supplies, Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico said, according to Reuters.
The proposed new round of sanctions by the European Commission includes restrictions on Russia's energy revenues, banking sector, and military-industrial complex. Specifically, it includes a ban on operations involving the Nord Stream pipelines and a reduction of the price cap on Russian oil to $45 per barrel.
Fico criticized the EU's plan for gradually phasing out Russian gas, oil, and nuclear fuel, calling it "economic suicide." According to him, Slovakia cannot afford to support sanctions that would endanger its energy security.
"Slovakia will not support the upcoming 18th sanctions package against Russia unless the European Commission provides it with a real solution to the crisis situation that Slovakia will find itself in after the complete cessation of gas, oil and nuclear fuel supplies from Russia," Fico stated.
Reuters noted that Slovakia has not blocked any of the previous sanctions packages, but now, like Hungary — another country heavily dependent on Russian gas — it is prepared to take a harder stance.
Fico has previously said he would block sanctions if they conflict with Slovakia's national interests.
As part of the 18th sanctions package against Russia, the European Union is preparing measures targeting nine individuals and 33 legal entities.
Meanwhile, French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot has expressed hope that the European Commission will present the 18th package of sanctions against Russia by the end of June.
