**Slovakia Refuses to Back EU Sanctions Against Russia Without Energy Solutions**
The European Union’s proposed 18th package of sanctions against Russia has hit a roadblock, with Slovakia refusing to support the measures unless the European Commission provides a solution to the country’s energy crisis. Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico made the announcement on Tuesday, saying that his government cannot afford to take on the economic burden of phasing out Russian gas and oil supplies without adequate alternatives.
Fico’s comments come as part of a broader EU plan to reduce dependence on Russian energy imports, which were announced last month. The proposal aims to cut off Russia’s revenue streams by banning transactions with the Nord Stream gas pipelines and lowering the price cap on Russian crude oil. However, Slovakia, along with Hungary, has expressed concerns about the economic impact of such measures.
Slovakia’s reliance on Russian energy supplies is significant, and the country’s government has been vocal in its opposition to the EU’s plans. In fact, Fico had previously stated that his government would block any sanctions package that harmed national interests. Now, he is insisting that the European Commission provide a solution to the crisis situation that Slovakia will face after the complete cessation of Russian energy supplies.
This development has implications for the EU’s collective stance on Russia. The bloc requires unanimity among its member states to approve new sanctions packages, and Slovakia’s refusal to back the 18th package means that negotiations are likely to be more contentious than previously thought. It remains to be seen how other EU countries will respond to Slovakia’s concerns.
**Background**
The European Commission proposed the 18th package of sanctions against Russia in response to Moscow’s ongoing invasion of Ukraine. The measures target Russian energy revenues, banks, and military industry. However, the plan has been met with opposition from some EU member states, including Hungary and now Slovakia, which have expressed concerns about the economic impact.
**What’s Next**
The debate over the sanctions package is set to begin this week among EU countries. As negotiations unfold, it remains to be seen how other member states will respond to Slovakia’s refusal to back the measures without energy solutions. The outcome of these talks will have significant implications for the EU’s collective stance on Russia and the future of its relations with Moscow.
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