Slovakia link support for new EU sanctions on Russia to gas supply guarantees

ISTANBUL 

Slovakia’s premier on Monday linked his country’s support for the EU’s latest sanctions package on Russia to guarantees of future gas supplies, rejecting calls for unconditional approval and underscoring Slovakia’s national energy interests.

In a letter addressed his Czech counterpart Petr Fiala, Robert Fico emphasized that the Slovak Republic is a “democratic and sovereign country,” adding that Bratislava would only back the sanctions package if the EU provides assurances that Slovakia would receive adequate and affordable gas supplies after Russian gas imports are phased out by January 2028.

“We have linked the proposal of the 18th sanctions package with the European Commission’s proposal to halt all deliveries of Russian gas starting from January 1, 2028,” Fico wrote.

“We are requesting that the relevant stakeholders provide the Slovak Republic with the necessary guarantees … This is a matter of Slovak national interest.”

Fico also extended an invitation for a joint meeting of the Slovak and Czech governments, calling it the best response to “unnecessary tension in the international arena.”

Fiala, in a letter released by Czech public news agency CTK, urged Fico not to obstruct the EU-wide sanctions, warning that Slovakia risks isolating itself within the bloc.

Citing the two nations’ shared experience of Soviet occupation (as Czechoslovakia, until their peaceful split in 1992), he highlighted the importance of European unity in the face of Russian aggression in Ukraine.

“We have a common interest in ensuring the safety of our citizens. Cooperation within the EU and NATO is a fundamental condition,” Fiala said, voicing hope that Slovakia would reconsider its position. Both countries belong to both the EU bloc and the NATO military alliance.

The vote on the sanctions has already been delayed multiple times due to Bratislava’s reservations.

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz also weighed in, calling on Slovakia to unblock the process and stressing that opposition from even a single member state can stall the package.

The proposed 18th sanctions package is part of the EU’s continued response to the Russia-Ukraine war and includes further trade restrictions, asset freezes, and measures targeting sectors tied to the Kremlin’s war effort.

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