Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fitzo, known for his sympathies for Russia, refused to sign the 18th package of sanctions against the aggressor country. The signature was also refused to put Hungary.
To approve the sanctions package requires the unanimous consent of all 27 EU Member States. However, two countries are blocking it now - Slovakia and Hungary. Robert Fitzo put forward three basic conditions for his approval, Politico reports.
In particular, Slovakia requires: guarantee of protection for Slovak companies in case of possible lawsuits from the Russian gas monopolist Gazprom; compensation for the loss of a meeting for Russian gas transit through the country; that the sanctions package will not be approved without full support for Slovakia. Brussels hope to change the position of Slovakia in the near future. In particular, on July 3, the President of the European Commission of Ursula von Der Lyen will come to Bratislava, who may offer Fitzo Prime Minister certain concessions. In addition, according to one of the European diplomats, not only Slovakia, but also Hungary is blocking the sanctions package. In view of this, the adoption of the package during the Polish presidency in the EU Council is unlikely. The final decision is likely to be made by Denmark, which will take the chairmanship on Tuesday.
At the same time, the insider notes that the agreement can be reached "enough" if the parties find a compromise.
