EU countries failed to agree a new sanctions package against Russia, with Slovakia demanding guarantees for Russian gas imports.

Slovakia has blocked the approval of the 18th EU sanctions package against Russia by veto, demanding guarantees that a halt to Russian gas imports in 2028 will not harm its economy. Prime Minister Robert Fico criticized the European Commission's proposal, demanding an extension until 2034, when the contract with Gazprom expires. He warned that eliminating energy imports would lead to higher prices and lower EU competitiveness.