German Chancellor Friedrich Merz of the Christian Democratic Union (CDU) has urged the Slovakian government to lift its blockade of the latest sanctions package targeting Russia, during a Ukraine reconstruction conference in Rome. Addressing attendees on Thursday, Merz stated his expectation that the Slovakian government, led by Robert Fico, would now approve the ratification of the 18th sanctions package within the Council.
The proposed 18th sanctions package encompasses a range of measures aimed at impacting Russia’s energy and banking sectors. Key provisions include restrictions on EU operators engaging in transactions related to the Nord Stream pipelines, the formal listing of 77 vessels as part of Russia’s shadow fleet and a prohibition on imports of products derived from refined Russian crude oil. Existing restrictions on the SWIFT system are slated to transition into a comprehensive ban, extending to additional Russian banks and impacting financial actors facilitating trade with Russia through sanctioned circumvention methods. Furthermore, the export of specific critical technologies to Russia is to be curtailed.
Beyond the focus on Slovakia, Merz also conveyed messages directed at both Russia and the United States. He emphasized the necessity for Moscow to recognize unwavering resolve, stating definitively that relinquishing this stance is “not an option” and aligning with the “right side of history”. He expressed a desire for alignment with the U.S. government’s perspective on this matter.
Concerning potential military support, the Chancellor indicated Germany’s readiness to procure additional Patriot air defense missile systems from the United States to provide to Ukraine. He acknowledged that the U.S. also requires these systems but noted ongoing discussions between defense ministers regarding a potential delivery.
