Slovakia doubts effectiveness of Russia sanctions package, stresses EU economy heading towards recession

Slovakian Foreign Minister Juraj Blanar stressed that the government will not support restrictions on Russian nuclear fuel imports - part of the European Union's (EU) 12th package of sanctions against Moscow.

Slovakia's foreign minister finds previous 11 sanctions packages ineffective against Russia (Source: National Law Review)

Referring to the EU's 12th package of sanctions, Mr. Juraj Blanar said: "That is a red line for us. Slovakia's nuclear power plants cannot yet switch to alternative fuels. This (nuclear-related sanctions provision) is definitely not possible."

At the same time, Mr. Blanar raised doubts about the effectiveness of the entire policy of sanctions against Russia that the EU has pursued since the beginning of the Russia-Ukraine conflict.

The diplomat said: "The previous 11 packages of sanctions have been ineffective against Russia, while the EU economy is heading towards recession. Food and fuel prices in Slovakia have skyrocketed due to the sanctions allegedly aimed at Moscow.

Slovakia, along with Bulgaria, the Czech Republic and Hungary, continues to buy important nuclear fuel from Russia.

Moscow is home to about 50% of the world 's uranium enrichment infrastructure, which is vital for the production of nuclear fuel.

EU authorities are currently studying a new set of sanctions against Russia, expected to target 120 individuals and entities. The proposals are said to include measures to cut off Moscow’s access to trade revenue by imposing a complete ban on the sale of Russian diamonds and jewelry.

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