Diplomatic Stalemate: EU Blocked by Slovak and Hungarian Veto

Another attempt to consolidate the European position regarding Russian aggression failed after Slovakia's categorical veto on the 18th sanctions package. Prime Minister Robert Fico blocked attempts at unity during the Brussels summit, calling into question the union's common external policy.

Parallel to this, Hungary took an additional step by hindering the official start of negotiations for Ukraine's admission to the European family. This move goes against Ursula von der Leyen's categorical position, who emphasized Kyiv's exceptional progress in reforms.

The European Commission President unequivocally stated that Ukraine deserves support, demonstrating consistent transformations even during wartime. "Under continuous fire, Ukraine continues to reform its state institutions," she was categorical.

Despite diplomatic tension, EU countries managed to achieve partial consensus - existing sanctions against Russia were automatically extended by half a year, which shows a certain degree of unity in an otherwise divided union.