Slovak PM Fico Threatens to Veto EU’s 20th Sanctions Package Against Russia.

EU Sanctions on Russia Face New Obstacle

According to Novyny.live: Robert Fico, the Prime Minister of Slovakia, has threatened to block the European Union’s upcoming 20th round of sanctions against Russia. His warning comes amid ongoing disputes over oil transit through the Druzhba pipeline. Fico insists that the European Commission must take more decisive action to resolve the issue.

Accusations and Energy Security Tensions

In his statement, Fico accused both the European Commission and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky of ignoring Slovakia’s interests, pointing to what he called 'double standards' from Brussels.

“The European Commission has done nothing to compel the Ukrainian president to take any action…” Fico said, calling for a shift in how cooperation is handled.

It is worth noting that in early March 2023, Zelensky held a phone conversation with Fico. During that call, the two discussed energy security, and Fico also announced that Slovakia would halt electricity exports to Ukraine by the end of February 2026. These developments highlight the growing friction between Slovakia and Ukraine amid pressing regional challenges.

As an EU member, Slovakia is obligated to support sanctions against Russia, but its internal energy and transit difficulties are shaping its stance. The escalating tensions between Slovakia and Ukraine could undermine not only bilateral ties but also broader stability in the region, where energy security remains a critical concern for many Eastern European nations.