Slovakia blocks agreement on new EU sanctions on Russia

Brussels [Belgium], June 27: Slovakian Prime Minister Robert Fico said Thursday at a European Union summit in Brussels that he is not ready to back a proposal for new sanctions on Russia, citing concerns over Slovakia's gas imports.
The proposed 18th sanctions package, put forward by the European Commission, targets Russia's financial and energy sectors in response to President Vladimir Putin's refusal to agree to an unconditional ceasefire in Ukraine.
Ahead of the EU summit, Fico had already threatened to veto the sanctions as he fears repercussions from a separate energy bill.
Slovakia objects to the plans by Brussels to completely stop gas-supply contracts with Russia from the start of 2028.
A meeting with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen to resolve the issue was "very constructive and pragmatic," Fico said in a video message posted on X, but did not find a solution.
Source: Qatar Tribune