The European Union failed to agree on the eighteenth package of sanctions against Russia because of Slovakia's withholding of gas supply guarantees.

At a recent meeting, the European Union failed to finalize a new package of sanctions against Russia because of opposition from Slovakia, which is demanding guarantees to cut Russian gas imports. EU diplomatic chief Kaja Kallas was disappointed but optimistic that a consensus would be reached. Slovakia, which relies on Russian energy for its economy, called for a postponement of the vote, criticizing the proposed sanctions. The European Commission has proposed sanctions targeting Russian banks and the Russian military industry, but Slovakia fears the economic consequences of giving up Russian gas.