**Slovakia’s Parliament Passes Resolution Opposing New Sanctions on Russia**
In a move that may complicate the European Union’s efforts to maintain a unified stance on sanctions, Slovakia’s parliament has passed a resolution urging the government to reject any new international trade restrictions against Russia. The non-binding resolution, introduced by the far-right Slovak National Party (SNS), argues that the existing sanctions have had negative economic impacts on Slovakia.
According to the resolution, the sanctions imposed in response to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine have led to increased energy prices, disrupted supply chains, and harmed Slovak industry. The lawmakers are calling on government ministers to “defend national economic interests” in international forums and resist further punitive measures targeting Moscow.
The resolution was passed with the support of 51 out of the 76 lawmakers present, with all SNS deputies backing the measure. Most members of Prime Minister Robert Fico’s left-wing Smer-SD party also voted in favor, as well as several from the coalition partner Hlas-SD and some independents.
However, not everyone was on board. One Hlas-SD lawmaker, Jan Ferencak, voted against the resolution, while 23 others from the same party abstained. Opposition lawmakers boycotted the vote entirely.
**A Shift in Slovakia’s Stance on Russia**
The passage of this resolution marks a significant shift in Slovakia’s stance on Russia, which has been increasingly criticized for its pro-Russian rhetoric. Since taking office in 2023, Prime Minister Fico has reversed Slovakia’s previous pro-Ukraine policy, ending military aid to Kyiv and questioning the value of EU sanctions on Russia.
This move may send a signal that Slovakia is willing to defy Brussels’ efforts to maintain consensus on sanctions. As an EU member state, Slovakia would need to vote in favor of any new sanctions for them to be implemented. A Slovak veto could force concessions or delay enforcement in future rounds.
**The Impact on the EU’s Sanctions Regime**
The European Union’s sanctions regime currently targets over 2,400 Russian individuals and entities involved in the war, as well as key sectors of the Russian economy, including energy, finance, defense, and technology. If Slovakia were to veto new sanctions, it could create a rift within the EU and complicate efforts to maintain a unified stance on Russia.
In conclusion, the passage of this resolution by Slovakia’s parliament may have significant implications for the EU’s sanctions regime and its efforts to hold Russia accountable for its actions in Ukraine.
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