Fico says Slovakia will not support 18th package of sanctions against Russia

Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico announced that Slovakia will not back the EU's 18th sanctions package against Russia without guarantees to offset losses from halting Russian gas transit starting January 1, 2028. The sanctions package is to be voted on July 11th and EU countries must reach a consensus for the sanctions to pass.

Fico stated,

"We refuse to simply vote in favour of the 18th sanctions package without conditions. Our support is contingent on addressing our concerns regarding gas prices, supply security and compensation for the damage we will incur from the cessation of Russian gas deliveries as of 1 January 2028."

Ongoing negotiations with the European Commission are showing some progress, but key issues remain unresolved. Slovakia is set to block the sanctions until it secures necessary compensation to avoid economic harm.