The European Commission has responded to Slovakia’s threats to block the 18th package of sanctions against Russia

The European Commission has responded to Slovakia’s threats to block the 18th package of sanctions against Russia

To ensure unanimity among all EU member states in voting for the 18th package of sanctions against Russia, the European Commission will discuss Slovakia’s concerns regarding potential issues related to the cessation of Russian energy supplies to the EU.

This was stated by the chief spokesperson of the European Commission, Paola Pinho, in response to a question from a "European Pravda" correspondent at a briefing in Brussels on June 11.

The chief spokesperson of the European Commission commented on the statement by the Prime Minister of Slovakia, Robert Fico, that he would block the 18th package of sanctions against Russia until the EU offers a solution to the "crisis situation" Slovakia will face following the complete cessation of Russian energy imports to the EU.

"All previous 17 packages (of sanctions against Russia. – Ed.) were approved unanimously by all 27 member states. This remains our goal for the 18th package. Therefore, we are doing our homework by reaching out to all member countries and discussing with them how we can solve possible issues," said Paola Pinho.

According to her, this time as well, the European Commission is "working with member states, including Slovakia, listening to their concerns and looking for ways to address them."

"In recent years, since the beginning of the war, we have been working very closely with all member states on the gradual phase-out of fossil fuel imports from Russia, and so far this has been successful," added the chief spokesperson of the European Commission.

Paola Pinho reported that the European Commission will soon present a new legislative initiative on the complete rejection of Russian energy resources in the EU.