Czech PM calls on Slovak counterpart to stop blocking EU sanctions against Russia

Czech Prime Minister Petr Fiala has called on his Slovak counterpart, Robert Fico, to stop blocking the EU’s 18th package of sanctions against Russia. In a letter quoted by the Czech News Agency, Fiala stressed the need for unity in response to Russian aggression in Ukraine. Slovakia has made its support conditional on guarantees over future gas supplies, as the EU plans to phase out Russian gas by 2027. Bratislava wants an agreement with the European Commission by Tuesday. Without it, Slovakia may continue to withhold support, delaying the sanctions package, which requires unanimous approval. Fiala warned that Slovakia risks isolating itself within the EU. The vote has already been postponed several times.