Slovakia's government under Prime Minister Robert Fico is pushing to remove two Russian oligarchs from European Union sanctions lists, according to a report from the Lansing Institute, threatening to undermine EU unity on measures designed to pressure Moscow over its war in Ukraine.
The move, if confirmed, would represent the most significant challenge yet to the EU's sanctions regime from within the bloc itself. EU sanctions require unanimous approval from all 27 member states, giving individual countries veto power over both the imposition and maintenance of restrictive measures.
According to the Lansing Institute report, Bratislava has formally requested the removal of two unnamed Russian businessmen from sanctions lists, arguing that they have been unfairly targeted. The report does not provide details on the identity of the oligarchs or the specific justification offered by Slovakia.
The Lansing Institute is not among the major international news organizations typically considered primary sources for European policy reporting, and the claims have not been confirmed by Reuters, Associated Press, or other major wire services. However, the report is consistent with Fico's broader pattern of challenging EU consensus on Russia policy.
Fico returned to power in Slovakia in 2023 after campaigning on a platform that included opposition to military aid for Ukraine and criticism of EU sanctions against . Since taking office, his government has halted weapons deliveries to and adopted increasingly pro- rhetoric.
