It was not finally approved its 18th package of sanctions against Russia, as it vetoed, blocking the process. “Russia does not want peace and, in response, the EU is ready to promote one of the toughest sanctions against Russia. Really, I’m sorry we didn’t do this today, “said the EU’s High Spokesman on foreign policy issues.
In an interview after the end of the Council, Kalas commented on the negative outcome of the vote, expressing her frustration over Slovakia’s stance saying, “I was hoping that today the package would be approved, but we did not succeed and I am really sorry. Slovakia vetoed, although talks and exchange of letters had been preceded. Today, however, things were different. “
At the same time, Slovakia Prime Minister Robert Fitso posting on the X platform, after the end of the Council, clarified his government’s position, stating that “the government coalition rejects the stupid proposal of the European Commission to interrupt the flow of natural gas.”
The approval of the 18th Package Package may proceed in the coming days, with Mrs Calas stating that “for the time being, the ball is on the Slovak stadium and we must reach this agreement. It’s been two months already. Sanctions are necessary for Russia to avoid the means to wage this war. The European Union will continue to increase the price so that (Russia) stops its aggression. “
The High Representative also referred to Ukraine, referring to growing attacks with banned chemical weapons from Russia, and underlined EU’s continued support for the country, while re -welcoming the US president’s announcement to send more weapons to Ukraine. He was asked about the traditions of US weapons to Ukraine through Europe and commented meaningfully that “if we pay for these weapons, it is our support. So it is European support and we do everything we can to help Ukraine. And therefore, the call is for everyone to do the same. “
‘Israel has to take more steps for Gaza’
Kaya Callas also referred to the Middle East and Gaza, saying that she sees positive signs on the part of Israel, which the EU will closely monitor. “Last week, Israel and the European Union reached an agreement to expand humanitarian aid to Gaza. Thus, we see positive signs, supplies that arrive in Gaza, open more entry points and electricity lines are repaired. “
As Mrs Calas pointed out, “Israel must take more steps.” To this end, there will be information and recording of progress every two weeks, and a list of measures has already been presented to ministers, which will be implemented if Israel does not comply with its promises. “The aim is not to punish Israel, but to improve the situation in Gaza,” he concluded.
