EU May Agree to One-Year Sanctions Extension Against Russia: Hungary and Slovakia Have No Objections
The EU may extend sectoral sanctions against Russia for one year instead of six months, as Hungary and Slovakia have no objections. The decision is expected on June 18, according to Rikard Jozwiak. This marks a change, as these countries previously often blocked similar initiatives.
The European Union is likely to agree to extend sectoral sanctions against Russia for a full year, instead of the previously standard six months. None of the EU member state capitals now object to this decision, according to Rikard Jozwiak, «Radio Free Europe» correspondent for European affairs, citing his own sources.
According to Jozwiak, EU leaders are expected to agree on extending the sanctions for 12 months as early as June 18. He noted that Hungary and Slovakia, which previously often blocked similar decisions, have no objections this time. The formal extension will take place later this summer.
Previously, under Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, Hungary regularly blocked EU sanctions and other decisions, demanding concessions. Slovakia often joined in these blockades. Currently, during work on the 21st package of EU sanctions against Russia, Bulgaria's position has become an obstacle due to the inclusion of Patriarch Kirill on the lists.