Slovakia blocks sanctions against Russia
5 July 2025 06:41
Slovakia has once again blocked the adoption of the 18th package of sanctions against Russia after a meeting of the permanent representatives of the EU member states. This was reported by the TASR news agency with reference to the Communications Department of the Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs of Slovakia, "Komersant Ukrainian" reports
The government under the leadership of Robert Fico has repeatedly stated that without proper guarantees from the European Commission aimed at minimizing the negative consequences of the program for Slovakia, support for the sanctions package is impossible. The RePowerEU initiative provides for the cessation of Russian natural gas imports to the European Union from 2028, which, according to the Slovak Prime Minister, could have a significant impact on the country’s economy.
The Slovak Foreign Ministry noted that the country positively assesses the negotiations with the European Commission on energy issues aimed at a deeper understanding of its specific reservations. At the same time, it emphasized Slovakia’s vulnerable position due to the potential consequences of the RePowerEU initiative.
According to the publication, this week, high-level representatives of the European Commission’s group of experts arrived in Slovakia to discuss problematic aspects of the program. The country’s Ministry of Economy, together with energy companies and industrial enterprises, points out that RePowerEU poses a serious challenge to the country’s economic competitiveness. Particular concerns are expressed about energy prices and energy security.
Slovakia is currently sticking to its position and continues to block the adoption of the sanctions package. At the same time, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs expresses its readiness for a constructive dialogue with the European Commission, which should be aimed at finding common solutions in the interests of citizens and businesses. However, so far, the negotiations have not led to the elimination of the Bratislava government’s key reservations about the RePowerEU program.
As a reminder, Hungary and Slovakia did not support sanctions restricting imports of cheap Russian energy.
