German Chancellor Friedrich Merz (source: TASR/AP)
Germany’s Chancellor Friedrich Merz has acknowledged that the European Union’s planned move to phase out Russian gas poses a “genuine problem” for Slovakia, signalling Berlin’s willingness to address the issue at the next EU summit.
Speaking alongside Romanian President Nikușor Dan at a joint press conference in Berlin on July 18, Merz thanked Slovakia for lifting its objections and allowing the EU to approve its 18th package of sanctions against Russia.
“Slovakia’s consent was awaited. In recent days, I had two in-depth discussions with Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico. I want to sincerely thank Slovakia and its prime minister for agreeing to the sanctions package,” said Merz.
Slovakia had initially blocked the sanctions package, seeking assurances from Brussels regarding the country’s future energy security amid efforts to disconnect the bloc from Russian gas.
Merz said Germany is prepared to support Slovakia and pledged that the matter would be brought up at the next European Council meeting.
“We are ready to tackle this issue together. I have committed to raising it at the next European Council session,” the German chancellor stressed.
In response to a journalist’s question about whether the 18th package will significantly impact Russia, or if a 19th may soon be necessary, Merz said the current measures will have “a strong effect” both on Russia’s economy and domestic affairs.
“We are again targeting the energy sector, and digging deeper into the banking sector. Yes, this will have an impact,” he said.
The EU Council formally adopted the latest sanctions on Friday, just hours after the unanimous approval of all member states’ permanent representatives.
