Slovakia Lifts Veto on EU Russia Sanctions

Slovakia has lifted its veto on the EU’s 18th package of sanctions against Russia after obtaining written guarantees from the European Commission to help mitigate the impact of phasing out Russian gas imports. Prime Minister Robert Fico explained that Slovakia’s previous objections focused on energy security and gas prices, but continuing the blockade would harm national interests. The sanctions package includes a prohibition on using the Nordstream pipelines and a reduction in the Russian oil price cap from $60 to around $45 per barrel. EU compensation for higher energy costs was also discussed as part of the assurances. The package is expected to be formally adopted after approval by EU ambassadors following weeks of stalled negotiations caused by Slovak and Maltese objections. With Slovakia’s veto lifted, only Malta continues to oppose the sanctions, mainly because of the oil price cap reduction.