Fico explained Slovakia's refusal to support the new EU sanctions against Russia

Slovakia does not support the new European Union (EU) sanctions against Russia, which jeopardize gas supplies from the Russian Federation, based on its own national interests. This was announced on July 5 by the Prime Minister of the Republic Robert Fico.

"We are undergoing a test of independence and the protection of our national interests at a time when we refuse to support another package of sanctions against Russia until we receive answers to the questions of who will protect us and how to compensate for the damage that will be inflicted on Slovakia," he said during celebrations dedicated to Saints' Day. Cyril and Methodius.

In addition, Fico called the proposal of the European Commission (EC) to completely abandon Russian gas from January 1, 2028 "ideological" and noted that it affects the "national pride" of Slovakia.

Right of veto: Slovakia intends to exchange the 18th package of sanctions for gas guarantees

The republic will appeal to the European Parliament to preserve fuel imports from the Russian Federation, and in the meantime, a delegation from Brussels is going to Bratislava for negotiations.

On July 4, EC representative Anna-Kaisa Itkoen announced "constructive" negotiations with Bratislava on the issue of energy supply to the country after the potential adoption of the 18th package of sanctions against the Russian Federation. However, on the same day, TASR news agency, citing the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic, reported that the dialogue with the EC had not allayed the republic's concerns and their country had again blocked the adoption of this decision.