Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico has issued a clear warning: if new European Union sanctions against Russia hurt Slovakia, he will not support them. Speaking on June 8, Fico said, “If there is a sanction that would harm us, I will never vote for it.”
This statement follows a June 5 resolution passed by Slovakia’s parliament. The resolution urges the government to oppose any fresh international sanctions or trade limits against Russia, arguing they have a harmful impact on Slovakia’s economy. Lawmakers say the existing sanctions have raised energy prices, damaged industrial sectors, and disrupted the country’s supply chains.
Sanctions are penalties used by countries to pressure others—usually for invading, breaking international rules, or threatening peace. Since Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022, the EU has introduced 17 rounds of sanctions, targeting banks, energy, and transport. Slovakia has previously supported all of them.
But now, the message from the government is different. The resolution calls on Slovak ministers to “defend national economic interests” in global forums and avoid backing any more steps that would increase domestic costs or risks.
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Fico Takes a Tougher Position in the EU
All EU countries must agree unanimously before new sanctions are adopted. This means any country, including Slovakia, can use its veto to block new penalties. Slovakia has never done this before.
However, Robert Fico’s recent comments suggest he may change course. He said, “I am interested in being a constructive player in the European Union, but not at the expense of Slovakia.”
Fico took office in 2023 and has been steering Slovakia in a different direction on foreign policy. One of his first moves was ending military aid to Ukraine. He has also raised doubts about whether EU sanctions are doing more harm than good—especially for Slovakia.
While Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán has often used his veto to delay or block EU decisions on Russia, Slovakia has not. But that could change if Fico follows through on his statements.
The EU is currently preparing its 18th sanctions package. The 17th round, agreed on May 14, mainly targeted Russia’s “shadow fleet” of oil tankers used to dodge restrictions.
Energy Security Is a Red Line
A key concern for Fico is Slovakia’s energy supply. He made it clear he would oppose any sanctions that would stop the import of Russian fuel used in Slovak nuclear power plants. This type of fuel is crucial for keeping Slovakia’s electricity supply running smoothly.
Slovakia’s dependence on specific Russian energy sources means any ban in this area could hurt its power grid and economy. Fico said he will not support measures that put this at risk.
Since taking office, Fico has been critical of how sanctions affect regular people and local businesses. He argues that while the aim may be to punish Russia, the result could be greater hardship for Slovak workers and companies.
Although Slovakia has not previously blocked any EU sanctions, Fico’s latest remarks signal a shift. With unanimous agreement required in the EU, Slovakia’s position could now affect whether new penalties against Russia move forward.
