Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico has publicly called for the European Union to lift sanctions on imports of Russian oil and gas. He made the statement following a call with Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor OrbΓ‘n, arguing the move is necessary to address economic and energy challenges.
Fico, who leads a populist government that took office in October 2023, has been a vocal critic of EU military support for Ukraine and has previously advocated for a swift peace settlement. His latest remarks align with his long-standing opposition to the sanctions regime, which he claims disproportionately harms European economies.
The EU's sanctions on Russian energy, particularly the phased embargo on seaborne oil imports and the ban on most gas imports, were implemented following Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022. The measures are designed to cut a key source of revenue for the Kremlin's war effort.
As of early 2026, there is no indication the EU plans to revise these core sanctions. The bloc has maintained a unified stance, with the European Commission stating the restrictions are essential for supporting Ukraine and upholding European security. Slovakia remains dependent on Russian oil, receiving continued exemptions via pipeline, but its government's position places it at odds with the broader EU consensus.
