EU Sanctions Targeting Russia Fail Over Slovakia’s Energy Concerns
(MENAFN) The European Union hit a major roadblock Tuesday when it failed to approve a fresh round of sanctions targeting Russia, due to Slovakia’s veto amid deep concerns over energy security, EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Kaja Kallas revealed.
Following an EU foreign ministers meeting in Brussels, Kallas expressed her disappointment, stating she was "really sad" that the sanctions did not pass and emphasized that "the ball is in Slovakia's court."
The European Commission had introduced its 18th sanctions package last month, focusing on crippling Russia’s energy sector, banking system, and defense capabilities. A key element of the proposed sanctions includes banning financial transactions tied to the Nord Stream gas pipelines.
Slovakia, heavily dependent on Russian gas imports, opposed the package, worried about potential supply interruptions and escalating energy costs, especially in light of the EU’s separate plan to eliminate Russian gas imports by early 2028.
Regarding military aid for Ukraine, Kallas stressed the EU’s desire for the United States to "share the burden" in providing arms.
U.S. President Donald Trump recently backed a proposal urging European allies to buy billions of dollars worth of American military equipment for delivery to Ukraine.
"If you promise to give the weapons, but say that somebody else is going to pay for it, it is not really given by you," Kallas said, commenting on Trump’s suggestion.
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