Slovakia continues to demand guarantees from the European Commission ahead of the planned halt in Russian gas deliveries by 2028 – a key measure under the EU’s proposed 18th sanctions package against Russia. While Slovakia supports the package – including a new dynamic oil price cap – it is currently blocking it to secure commitments such as future gas transit fees, Prime Minister Robert Fico (Smer-SD) said Saturday.
Prime Minister Fico added that Slovakia hopes to reach an agreement with EU officials within 48 hours and will back sanctions if a deal is reached before Tuesday’s Foreign Affairs Council.
He warned that Slovakia is more exposed to the gas cut-off than any other EU country. Agriculture Minister Richard Takáč (Smer-SD) also underscored that higher gas prices would hurt Slovak farmers and drive-up food costs.
Meanwhile, the EU is nearing consensus on the sanctions package, reported Reuters. The package includes a variable oil price cap starting at $47 per barrel – 15% below Russia’s current export average – reviewed every six months. It also proposes bans on trade with Nord Stream-linked companies and banks involved in sanctions evasion.
The oil price cap, currently set at $60 per barrel, aims to restrict Moscow’s ability to finance its war in Ukraine. However, recent drops in global oil prices below $70 have rendered the cap largely ineffective.
A final decision on the 18th sanctions package is expected Tuesday, requiring unanimous approval by EU member states.
Sources: TASR, Reuters
