Fico: I Seek Early Agreement with the European Commission on Halting Russian Gas Supply

Bratislava – Slovakia is continuing to withhold its support for the 18th package of anti-Russian sanctions, tying its vote to the resolution of concerns over gas prices, availability, and compensation for potential damages resulting from the halt of Russian gas supplies effective January 1, 2028. Prime Minister Robert Fico (Smer-SD) expressed this stance on social media on Thursday, while also indicating a desire for a prompt agreement with the European Commission (EC) to modify the proposal to stop Russian gas flow, aiming to shield Slovakia from severe repercussions, as reported by TASR.

“Slovakia is a sovereign country, and I cannot permit unnecessary ideological gestures, like halting Russian gas, to inflict significant harm on our nation. I must recognize the European Commission’s efforts to address Slovakia’s concerns. We are nearing agreement on some unresolved issues, while in others, we remain far apart,” the Prime Minister remarked.

Last week, an EC delegation visited Slovakia to discuss plans to cease Russian energy imports with business and government representatives. Fico noted that as members of the EU and NATO, cooperation with these organizations is essential, but stated that he would not agree to all proposals merely to fit in.

Slovakia’s rejection of the 18th sanctions package against Russia has sparked strong reactions from various foreign politicians. According to Fico, working under pressure and in an environment filled with harsh rhetoric is not feasible. On Wednesday (July 9), the government instructed its ambassador in Brussels not to support the sanctions package. Another COREPER meeting is set for Friday, followed by a gathering of EU foreign ministers in Brussels on Tuesday (July 10).


Comments

6 responses to “Fico: I Seek Early Agreement with the European Commission on Halting Russian Gas Supply”

  1. Dahlia Avatar

    Sounds like Fico’s got the gas tap on one hand and a EU membership card on the other—let’s just hope he doesn’t blow a fuse while trying to juggle both! 😂

  2. trouble mittens Avatar
    trouble mittens

    Looks like Fico’s idea of a thrilling weekend involves negotiating gas prices instead of, you know, actually stopping the flow of Russian gas. Classic Slovak maneuvering: “Let’s not rock the boat, especially when there’s a comfy seat next to the gas pump!” 😂

  3. Hyper Kong Avatar
    Hyper Kong

    Seems like Fico’s playing a high-stakes game of chess while the rest are still figuring out checkers. Good luck negotiating with the EC; maybe a nice bottle of Slovak wine will sweeten the deal? 🍷😏

  4. gbbledgoodk Avatar
    gbbledgoodk

    Just what we needed, another political tango over gas supplies! Who knew keeping the lights on could be such a diplomatic waltz? 💃💡

  5. Oh, lovely, nothing says “progress” like asking the European Commission for a little favor while holding the gas supply hostage. Classic Slovakian negotiation strategy: “We’ll play nice, but only if the price is right, innit? 😂💰”

  6. Seems like Fico’s got a brilliant plan—who needs principles when you can have gas? 🤷‍♂️ It’s almost as if he thinks the EU’s just a suggestion box for his energy needs! 😏

  7. sweet bacon Avatar
    sweet bacon

    Oh, brilliant move, Fico! Who needs principles when you can just negotiate your way into a cozy gas deal, right? 🤔💸

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