Czech Republic Urges Slovakia Not to Slow Down Sanctions

Czech Prime Minister Petr Fiala appealed to Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico not to impede the adoption of the 18th package of EU anti-Russian sanctions.  

The Gaze reports on this with reference to Radio Prague International. 

Fiala emphasized in his letter the importance of joint actions by the EU countries in response to Russia's aggression against Ukraine. He also recalled the common historical past of the Czech Republic and Slovakia, including the experience of occupation by Moscow. 

In addition, the Czech prime minister warned that a possible blocking of sanctions could lead to Slovakia's isolation in the EU. 

"We have a common interest in ensuring the security of our citizens. Cooperation within the EU and NATO is essential," Fiala wrote. 

He expressed hope that Slovakia, being the “closest partner,” would reconsider its position and support the unity of the democratic world. 

This is not the first time that the vote on sanctions has been postponed because of Bratislava's position. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz emphasized that only one member state is needed to approve the sanctions package and called on Fico to unblock the process, the report said. 

The Gaze previously reported that the European Union again failed to adopt the 18th package of sanctions against Russia, as Slovakia refused to lift its veto during a meeting of the Committee of Permanent Representatives (Coreper).