Media reports EU postpones vote on new Russia sanctions

(MENAFN) EU leaders have decided to delay discussions on a new sanctions package against Russia, Hungarian news outlet Index reports. The postponement stems from opposition by Hungary and Slovakia, which are concerned about the impact on energy imports.

For new sanctions to be adopted, all 27 EU member states must unanimously agree. However, Hungary and Slovakia have voiced objections, particularly regarding the European Commission’s plan to phase out Russian energy imports by 2027. The Commission aims to implement this plan using trade law to bypass vetoes from dissenting countries.

Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico threatened to veto the 18th sanctions package, and despite a meeting with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen before the EU summit in Brussels, no compromise was reached. Consequently, the sanctions proposal was removed from the summit agenda to avoid formal rejection.

Fico stated Slovakia would not back the sanctions until concerns over post-2027 gas supplies are addressed. Hungarian Foreign Minister Peter Szijjarto also confirmed that Budapest and Bratislava would block the sanctions due to fears of a ban on Russian energy purchases.

The proposed 18th package targets Russian energy exports, infrastructure, and financial entities. It includes a ban on using the sabotaged Nord Stream pipeline, restrictions on refined products from Russian crude, and sanctions on 77 vessels linked to Russia’s “shadow fleet,” accused of circumventing oil trade limits.

European Council President Antonio Costa announced after the summit that work on the sanctions package continues. Reuters added that the EU has agreed to extend existing sanctions for another six months.

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