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The European Union has failed to agree on a new package of sanctions against Russia, highlighting yet another internal rift among member states over the war in Ukraine. The news was made public by EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas after a meeting of foreign ministers in Brussels.
" I am very sad that we did not reach an agreement today. We were very close to securing Slovakia - the Commission fulfilled everything they asked for ," Kallas told reporters, making it clear that the only obstacle now remains Bratislava, which has not yet given the green light for the new punitive package against the Kremlin.
Europe hesitates, Russia bombs
Kallas' statement comes at a critical moment: according to her, Russia has intensified its bombing campaign in Ukraine, to record levels in recent weeks, and has "repeatedly used banned chemical weapons," according to EU observations.
" The only way to force Putin to end this war is to push him towards a solution through united pressure. Russia does not seek peace, and this is clearer than ever, " Kallas stressed.
In this context, the new sanctions package is considered one of the strongest ever proposed by the EU, with harsh economic measures, a ban on technological exports, and financial strikes on the Russian energy and industrial sectors.
Trump sends weapons, EU hesitates
In the same speech, Kallas welcomed US President Donald Trump's decision to send more weapons to Ukraine. "We welcome President Trump's announcement. But we would like the US to share the burden, if we act together, we can put real pressure on Putin," she said.
This statement reinforces the reality of closer transatlantic cooperation, but it also highlights internal tensions in the EU, where the lack of a unified voice is hindering decision-making on security and foreign policy issues.
Slovakia in the spotlight: "The ball is in their court"
Stressing Slovakia's crucial role, Kallas said: " It's been two months now. We have to conclude this agreement. The ball is in Slovakia's court ."
Bratislava, one of the most vocal pro-balance voices between Russia and the West, has raised concerns about the economic effects of sanctions on its domestic industry, a line that has clashed with growing pressure from countries such as Poland, Lithuania and Germany that are calling for stronger measures against the Kremlin.
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