Slovakia has blocked the EU’s 18th sanctions package targeting Russia, citing concerns over the planned phase-out of Russian energy imports. The move comes amid fears that the transition could harm Slovakia’s economy, prompting the country to demand guarantees from Brussels. Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico has warned that the phase-out under the RePowerEU plan could jeopardize energy security and lead to higher prices. He also highlighted the risk of arbitration with Russia’s Gazprom, which could result in penalties of up to €20 billion if Slovakia breaks its long-term energy supply contract.
The EU’s Committee of Permanent Representatives voted on the sanctions package, with Slovakia using its veto power to block it. The Foreign Ministry stated that while the country is open to further negotiations, its fundamental concerns about the economic impact have not been addressed. Meanwhile, Hungary also opposed the plan, warning that energy cuts would threaten its own energy security and trigger sharp price hikes.
The European Commission has framed the 18th sanctions package as an effort to pressure Russia to end the Ukraine conflict. The measures include lowering the Russian oil price cap from $60 to $, banning the future use of the Nord Stream pipeline, restricting imports of refined products made from Russian crude, and sanctioning 77 vessels linked to the so-called Russian ‘shadow fleet.’
Moscow has condemned the sanctions, calling them illegal and counterproductive. Russian officials argue that the EU’s rejection of Russian energy will force Moscow to rely on costlier imports or rerouted energy through intermediaries, which could drive up prices. This highlights the ongoing tension between the EU and Russia over energy dependence and the potential economic consequences of the sanctions.