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Key Points

The EU’s latest sanctions package against Russia was blocked by Slovakia due to concerns over energy security. Kaja Kallas expressed disappointment, stating the decision now rests with Slovakia. The proposed sanctions targeted Russia’s energy, banking, and defense sectors. Meanwhile, Kallas called for the US to contribute more to Ukraine’s military support.

Key Points: EU Russia Sanctions Blocked by Slovakia Over Energy Concerns

  • Slovakia blocks EU sanctions over Russian gas reliance
  • Proposed measures target energy, banking, and defense sectors
  • Kallas urges US to share Ukraine arms burden
  • Trump suggests EU allies fund US weapons for Ukraine
2 min read

EU fails to approve new Russia sanctions

Slovakia halts EU’s latest Russia sanctions package, citing energy security fears as Kaja Kallas expresses frustration over the delay.

"The ball is in Slovakia’s court. – Kaja Kallas, EU High Representative"

Brussels, July 16

The European Union (EU) failed to approve a new round of sanctions against Russia, as the move was blocked by Slovakia over concerns related to energy security, according to EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Kaja Kallas.

Speaking after a meeting of EU foreign ministers in Brussels, Kallas said she was "really sad" the sanctions didn't get approved, adding that "the ball is in Slovakia's court."

The European Commission unveiled its 18th sanctions package last month, targeting Russia's energy sector, banking operations, and defense industry. Among the proposed measures is a ban on financial transactions involving Russia's Nord Stream gas pipelines, Xinhua news agency reported.

Slovakia, which relies heavily on Russian gas, objected to the proposed package, citing fears of supply disruptions and rising energy costs linked to a separate EU proposal to phase out Russian gas imports by early 2028.

On the topic of military support for Ukraine, Kallas said the EU would like to see the United States "share the burden" of supplying arms.

US President Donald Trump on Monday endorsed a plan for European allies to purchase billions of dollars' worth of American military equipment for transfer to Ukraine.

"If you promise to give the weapons, but say that somebody else is going to pay for it, it is not really given by you," Kallas said, referring to Trump's proposal.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

P
Priya S
Interesting how Slovakia is prioritizing its national interest over EU unity. This is exactly why India's non-aligned stance makes sense - every country ultimately looks after itself first. 🤔
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Arjun K
The EU wants US to share burden but won't acknowledge how sanctions hurt developing nations like India. Our fuel prices shot up because of their policies. Double standards much?
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Sarah B
As an expat in Delhi, I see both sides. Europe's divided stance shows how complex geopolitics is. Maybe India's balanced approach between Russia and West is wiser than taking extreme positions.
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Karthik V
While I support Ukraine, I must say this shows why India was right to keep buying Russian oil. You can't expect countries to sacrifice their people's welfare for geopolitical posturing. Common sense prevails!
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Meera T
The EU lectures others about standing up to Russia but can't even get its own members to agree! Meanwhile India quietly secures energy deals that benefit our economy. Actions speak louder than words. 💯

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