Slovakia will not support the 18th package of sanctions of the European Union against Russia until it receives guarantees of protection against economic losses that may arise in connection with the termination of the supply of Russian gas to the EU from January 1, 2028. The Prime Minister of Slovakia, Robert Fico, instructed the Slovak ambassador in Brussels to block the 18th package of EU sanctions against the Russian Federation. informs IntelliNews.
“We refuse to simply vote for the 18th sanctions package without preconditions. Our support depends on the resolution of our concerns about gas prices, security of supply and compensation for the losses we will suffer as a result of the cessation of Russian gas supplies from January 1, 2028.” – said Fizo.
He added that controversial issues with the European Commission “have not yet been resolved.”
“Our ambassador in Brussels was again instructed not to support the 18th package of sanctions.” – said the head of the government.
The leader of Slovakia also noted that he cannot allow a situation where “senseless ideological gestures like stopping the supply of Russian gas caused serious damage to our state.” At the same time, he admitted that negotiations with the European Commission are ongoing and show positive dynamics.
“I must admit that the European Commission is making efforts to find a solution for Slovakia. On some open issues we are close to agreement, on others we are still far away… I sincerely hope to quickly reach an agreement with the Commission, which will lead to the adjustment of its proposal to phase out Russian gas in a way that protects Slovakia from the worst possible consequences“, Robert Fitso emphasized.
