German Chancellor Friedrich Merz of the Christian Democratic Union (CDU) has urged the Slovakian government to lift its blockade of the most recent sanctions package against Russia, speaking at a Ukraine reconstruction conference in Rome on Thursday. Merz stated that he expects the Slovakian government, led by Robert Fico, to now approve the ratification of this 18th sanctions package within the Council.
The proposed 18th sanctions package encompasses a range of measures targeting both the energy and banking sectors. Key provisions include restrictions on EU operators engaging in transactions related to the Nord Stream pipelines and the formal listing of 77 vessels as part of Russia’s shadow fleet. A ban on the import of products refined from Russian crude oil is also included. Existing restrictions on the SWIFT system are slated for further expansion, transitioning into a complete transaction ban and extending to additional Russian banks. Financial entities facilitating trade with Russia through sanctions circumvention would also be subject to the prohibitions. Furthermore, exports of specific critical technologies to Russia are set to be curtailed.
Addressing both Moscow and Washington D.C. from Rome, Merz conveyed a clear message to Russia, asserting that relinquishing efforts is not an option and that it represents the “right side of history”. He expressed hope that the U.S. government shares this perspective.
Regarding potential military support, the Chancellor indicated Germany’s readiness to procure additional Patriot air defense missile systems from the United States for delivery to Ukraine. While the Americans require these systems themselves, discussions are currently underway between defense ministers regarding the feasibility of such a shipment.