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Shkruar nga Pamfleti
Slovakia's Prime Minister, Robert Fico, warned today that his country will block the 20th package of European Union sanctions against Russia if European institutions continue to maintain an approach that, according to him, favors Ukraine to the detriment of Bratislava.
Fico links his stance to the ongoing standoff over oil supplies through the Druzhba pipeline, which was cut off in late January. Ukraine has said the damage was linked to Russian attacks, a claim Moscow has denied. Slovakia and Hungary view the cut as deliberate and have warned of repercussions if the situation continues. On the other hand, authorities in Kiev have announced repair work, but the timeline for restoring operations has changed several times.
The Slovak prime minister also criticized the European Commission's response to Bratislava's domestic measures, including restrictions on the distribution of oil to foreigners. He stressed that Brussels has reacted with immediate warnings to Slovakia, while not using the same approach towards Ukraine.
" The European Commission immediately sent us a threatening letter within two days, threatening all possible actions. It is strange that the same language is not used in relation to Zelensky; they are full of love and understanding," Fico declared.
Fico stated that, if this line continues, Slovakia will not only support the new sanctions package, but also the possible acceleration of Ukraine's EU membership.
The pipeline debate has also influenced the decision-making on sanctions, as Hungary has expressed similar objections. Budapest has also blocked an EU financial aid package for Ukraine, adding to tensions within the union.
The situation remains open, while decisions on sanctions and support for Kiev depend on the consensus of member states.
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