**EU Diplomats Expect Deal on New Russia Sanctions**
The European Union is close to reaching a deal on a new package of sanctions against Russia. This comes as EU leaders are trying to pressure Russia into negotiating a ceasefire with Ukraine. The proposed 18th package of sanctions targets more of Russia’s energy revenues by listing banks and hitting its shadow tanker fleet.
**Hungary and Slovakia Using Sanctions as Bargaining Chip**
However, Hungary and Slovakia are using the new sanctions as a bargaining chip for concessions on Russian energy. They want changes to the proposal to ban imports of Russian energy by 2027. The two countries argue that cutting off Russian pipeline gas will raise prices, especially in central Europe. They also want a mechanism to cap EU transit fees and guarantees in case of a gas shortage.
**EU Leaders to Discuss Energy Ban**
The European Union leaders will discuss the ban at a European Council on Thursday and Friday in Brussels. Polish minister Ignacy Niemczycki said that the conversation after Thursday’s summit will be easier if a deal is reached. However, Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico reiterated his position that a vote should be delayed until concerns over the energy ban are resolved.
**Concerns Over Energy Ban**
Slovakia argues that cutting off Russian pipeline gas will raise prices, especially in central Europe. They also want a mechanism to cap EU transit fees and guarantees in case of a gas shortage. An EU diplomat familiar with the discussions said Slovakia and Hungary want “different treatment for landlocked countries”.
**Complications Ahead**
Lawyers have cautioned it will be difficult to eliminate the risk of claims if the Commission goes through with its plan to use trade measures for the ban rather than formal sanctions, which would require unanimity. Slovak state-owned gas importer SPP said Russian gas giant Gazprom may demand compensation despite a declaration of force majeure by SPP if the EU bans imports.
**EU Commission Spokesperson**
A European Commission spokesperson said that they have been working closely with the member states most concerned by the phase-out. The EU is trying to push Russia to negotiate a ceasefire with Ukraine after EU leaders called for “massive sanctions” in May.
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