EU Fails to Approve New Russia Sanctions

The European Union failed to reach an agreement on its 18th sanctions package against Russia after Slovakia requested a postponement. EU foreign ministers, meeting in Brussels, discussed Ukraine, Gaza, Iran, Georgia, and Moldova. High Representative Kaja Kallas expressed regret over the delay, stating Slovakia’s stance may stem from domestic politics. Slovakia reportedly wants to keep buying Russian gas until 2034. Kallas warned that Russia had conducted over 9,000 chemical attacks in Ukraine and stressed the urgency of coordinated sanctions and humanitarian aid to Gaza.