Czech Prime Minister Urges Slovakia to Support EU Sanctions Against Russia
Czech Prime Minister Petr Fiala has urged Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico to refrain from obstructing the EU’s 18th sanctions package against Russia, citing their nations’ shared history of Soviet occupation and the critical need for European unity in the face of Russian aggression.
In a letter sent on Sunday, Fiala referenced their “shared painful experience of Moscow’s aggressive policies and the Kremlin-ordered occupation,” alluding to the Soviet invasion of Czechoslovakia in 1968. He underscored the importance of solidarity within NATO and the EU.
Currently, Slovakia is blocking the EU sanctions due to energy security concerns, particularly regarding a proposed ban on Russian gas imports by the end of 2027. Fiala expressed that his appeal was made “not only for the Ukrainian civilians who are facing increasingly intense Russian bombardment” but also for the sake of maintaining unity among democratic nations.
“Given the exceptionally close ties between our countries, I asked him to reconsider Slovakia’s position on the 18th sanctions package and contribute to preserving the unity and resolve with which the democratic world is confronting Russian aggression,” Fiala stated.
Slovakia remains significantly dependent on Russian gas, importing approximately 3 billion cubic meters annually, which constituted about 65% of its total gas consumption in 2023. There are concerns that phasing out Russian gas could lead to shortages, increased prices, and complications with its contract with Gazprom, which is set to last until 2034.
On Saturday, Fico indicated his hopes for reaching a deal by Tuesday that would address Slovakia’s concerns, reiterating that Slovakia would not impede the EU’s progress with the sanctions vote if given adequate guarantees.
In light of ongoing geopolitical tensions and the implications of the sanctions, both leaders face critical decisions that will shape their countries’ roles within the EU and the broader context of Russian-EU relations, reports 24brussels.
