As noted by the Communication Department of the Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs of Slovakia (MFEA), the Slovak government, led by Prime Minister Robert Fico, has repeatedly stated its refusal to approve the new package of sanctions without receiving clear guarantees from the European Commission regarding the RePowerEU initiative.

This initiative envisages a complete ban on the import of Russian natural gas to the EU starting January 1, 2028, which, according to Prime Minister Fico, will have significant negative economic consequences for Slovakia.

“Slovakia positively assessed the working consultations with representatives of the European Commission on energy matters and the RePowerEU initiative, aimed at better understanding Slovakia’s concerns and demands as the most affected member state,” the statement from the Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs (MFEA) reads.

As part of these negotiations, a group of high-level European Commission experts arrived in Slovakia this week.

Representatives from the Ministry of Economy, energy companies, and industry emphasized that the implementation of RePowerEU poses a serious challenge to the competitiveness of the national economy, particularly regarding energy prices and energy security.

The ministry also stressed that Slovakia maintains its current position regarding the sanctions package.

“Slovakia remains ready to continue constructive dialogue with the European Commission and to jointly seek solutions in the interest of citizens and businesses. At the same time, the current stage of negotiations has not resolved the key concerns and reservations that remain relevant for Slovakia regarding the RePowerEU initiative,” the MFEA added.

Slovakia blocks sanctions against Russia

On June 10, the European Commission presented a new package of sanctions against Russia for its aggressive war against Ukraine. The restrictions include blocking Moscow’s revenues from energy exports, its banks, and the military industry.

However, on June 23, the governments of Slovakia and Hungary refused to support the EU’s 18th sanctions package against Russia. The reason was the countries’ unwillingness to lose access to cheap Russian oil and gas supplies.

Slovakia’s Foreign Minister Juraj Blanár assured that Bratislava would lift its veto on sanctions after the EU provides guarantees to reduce the negative consequences of abandoning Russian energy sources.

Blanár even called to forgive Russia for everything that has happened in Ukraine.

Meanwhile, the EU continues to discuss the new package of anti-Russian sanctions and plans to adopt it soon.