Slovakia approves 18th EU sanctions package against Russia

On July 18, 2025, Slovakia's Prime Minister Robert Fico announced the decision to approve the 18th package of EU sanctions against Russia due to its ongoing war on Ukraine. This approval came after Slovakia had reportedly blocked the sanctions package on six occasions, reflecting significant resistance from the Slovak government. The sanctions were intended to target Russia's energy revenues and its banking sector, implementing measures such as a lower oil price cap and restrictions on Nord Stream gas pipelines, which are crucial for generating revenue for the Kremlin. Fico explained that after extensive negotiations, it was deemed counterproductive to continue blocking these sanctions as it would jeopardize Slovakia's interests. The decision also came in context with discussions with the European Commission, where Slovakia received written commitments regarding energy security and gas supply guarantees. This agreement strengthened Slovakia's position while still adhering to EU policies aimed at responding to Russia's aggression. The approval of the sanctions reflects a broader trend within the EU to impose economic pressure on Russia to deter its military actions in Ukraine. These sanctions have been ramped up since the beginning of the conflict in February 2022, with Slovakia's past vetoes emphasizing the concerns of nations dependent on Russian energy supplies. The EU's 18th sanctions package explicitly included provisions that would ban transactions with Russian banks and restrict access to certain energy pipelines, thereby tightening the financial noose around Moscow's resources. In a video address, Fico emphasized that despite Slovakia's shift in stance towards the sanctions package, the country would oppose any future initiatives that aim to discontinue Russian gas supplies by 2027. With the approval of the 18th sanctions package, Fico acknowledged that the negotiations would now continue towards addressing Slovakia's energy security, especially in contexts where gas supply lines are concerned. Slovakia's approval represents a crucial moment for EU solidarity in effectively addressing the geopolitical ramifications of Russia's ongoing military actions.