Ukraine war briefing: Slovakia PM calls on EU to lift sanctions on Russian oil and gas
Slovakia’s Prime Minister Robert Fico has urged the European Union to lift sanctions on Russian oil and gas imports, arguing that the move would help mitigate the energy crisis caused by the conflict in Iran. The call follows a conversation with Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán and highlights…
Prime Minister Robert Fico of Slovakia has publicly requested that the European Union lift its sanctions on Russian oil and gas imports. In a statement issued after a phone conversation with Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, Fico said that ending the restrictions would help address the energy crisis that has been exacerbated by the war in Iran.
Why the call matters
Russia has been a major supplier of energy to many European countries. The EU’s sanctions, imposed in response to Russia’s actions in Ukraine, have limited the flow of Russian oil and gas into the bloc. With the war in Iran disrupting global oil supply chains, energy prices have surged, creating a double‑hit for European consumers and businesses. Fico argues that re‑opening dialogue with Russia could secure alternative sources of fuel and mitigate the economic fallout.
Slovakia and Hungary: EU outliers
Unlike most EU member states, Slovakia and Hungary have maintained relatively friendly relations with Moscow. Their leaders have often criticized the EU’s hard‑line approach to Russia and have called for a more pragmatic engagement strategy. Fico’s statement reflects this stance and signals a potential shift in the bloc’s energy policy.
Global context: The Iran war and oil supply disruptions
On 28 February, the United States and Israel launched a military operation against Iranian targets. The attack disrupted shipping lanes in the Persian Gulf, causing a significant slowdown in oil exports. The International Energy Agency has described the resulting shortage as the largest oil supply disruption in history. As a result, oil prices have spiked, adding pressure to European energy markets that are already strained by the sanctions on Russian supplies.
Ukraine’s diplomatic outreach
Amid the escalating conflict, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced a new security cooperation agreement with Turkey. The partnership focuses on sharing expertise, technology, and experience in areas such as cyber defence and military logistics. President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan confirmed that Turkey would continue to support diplomatic negotiations between Ukraine and Russia, signalling a potential avenue for peace talks.
Potential US involvement in Kyiv
Ukrainian intelligence chief Kyrylo Budanov has indicated that U.S. envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner may travel to Kyiv in April. The visit would be the first official trip to the capital for both men, who have previously met Ukrainian officials in Washington but have also visited Moscow for talks with Russian leaders. Budanov suggested that the meeting could take place shortly after Orthodox Easter, on 12 April, and that other U.S. officials such as Senator Lindsey Graham might also attend.
Recent drone attacks in Ukraine
Russia’s aerial campaign has intensified in recent weeks, with an increase in daytime strikes. On Saturday, a Russian drone struck a covered market in the eastern city of Nikopol, killing five people and injuring 25. The local prosecutor’s office confirmed that three women and two men lost their lives. The Ukrainian Air Force reported that 286 drones were launched overnight, with 260 intercepted.
In the city of Sumy, near the Russian border, a drone attack wounded 11 residents. In Kyiv, a drone strike ignited a fire on the first floor of a three‑story office and warehouse building, though no casualties were reported. The partially occupied Donetsk region experienced a drone strike on a civilian car, killing one woman and wounding another. In the occupied Luhansk region, Russian‑installed authorities claimed that Ukrainian forces damaged railway infrastructure and private houses, resulting in the death of a family of three.
What’s next?
Fico’s appeal to the EU comes at a time when energy security is a top priority for European policymakers. The outcome of his request could influence the trajectory of EU sanctions policy and the broader diplomatic relationship with Russia. Meanwhile, Ukraine’s diplomatic efforts with Turkey and potential U.S. engagement may open new channels for conflict resolution, though the situation on the ground remains volatile.
Why it matters
The energy crisis triggered by the Iran war and EU sanctions on Russian supplies has significant economic and geopolitical implications for Europe and Ukraine. Fico’s call could reshape EU energy policy and affect the balance of power in the region.
Key points
- Slovakia PM urges EU to lift Russian energy sanctions
- Ukraine faces increased drone attacks amid Russia’s intensified campaign
- Ukrainian president seeks stronger ties with Turkey for security cooperation
- Potential U.S. envoys to visit Kyiv to revive peace talks
- Russia’s oil supply disruption linked to Iran war
- Slovakia and Hungary maintain unique relations with Moscow
Frequently asked questions
Why is Slovakia calling for the removal of sanctions on Russian energy?
Slovakia argues that lifting sanctions would help mitigate the energy crisis caused by the war in Iran, which has disrupted global oil supplies and increased prices.
What is the significance of the Ukraine-Turkey security cooperation?
It represents a new avenue for Ukraine to leverage its wartime experience and technology to strengthen its defence capabilities and support diplomatic efforts.
