The EU countries unanimously approved the 19th package of sanctions against Russia.

Slovakia was the last country opposing the sanctions package, after EU countries agreed on the final text last week.

European Union states have approved the 19th sanctions package against Russia, which includes a ban on imports of Russian liquefied natural gas, announced the Danish presidency of the EU Council.

The ban on liquefied natural gas will come into effect in two stages: short-term contracts will cease after six months, while long-term contracts will end from January 1, 2027, one year earlier than the Commission's roadmap to end the bloc's dependence on Russian fossil fuels.