EU Faces Mounting Pressure to Lift Russian Energy Bans

Slovakia has threatened to block the European Union’s 20th package of sanctions against Russia unless the Druzhba oil pipeline is repaired and Russian gas flows are restored, according to multiple Slovak media reports.

The threat comes as Italy’s Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni reiterated that maintaining economic pressure on Russia is vital for achieving peace in Ukraine, speaking to the Global Banking & Finance Review on April 14, 2026.

Slovak officials have linked their opposition to the new sanctions package to the ongoing disruption of the Druzhba pipeline, which transports Russian oil to several European countries. Reports from O Cafezinho and Jornal de Notícias indicate that Slovakia is demanding the pipeline’s reactivation as a condition for its support of the 20th sanctions package.

The Druzhba pipeline, a major infrastructure route for Russian oil exports to Europe, has faced operational challenges that Slovakia claims are affecting its energy security. Slovak media outlets have reported that the country views the pipeline’s repair as essential before agreeing to further restrictive measures against Russia.

Meanwhile, Claudio Descalzi, CEO of Italian energy company Eni, has appealed for the EU to reconsider its planned ban on Russian gas imports scheduled for 2027. Descalzi stated that suspending the prohibition on Russian gas in 2027 is necessary, according to reports from Jornal Económico and Segunda Base.

The differing positions within the EU highlight ongoing debates about energy security and sanctions strategy. While some member states, like Slovakia, seek to maintain or restore energy ties with Russia under specific conditions, others, including Italy’s government, emphasize that sustained economic pressure remains crucial for peace efforts.

The European Commission has previously presented legislative proposals to end dependency on Russian energy, covering gas, oil and nuclear sectors. These proposals are currently under consideration by EU member states as part of broader efforts to reduce reliance on Russian fossil fuels while supporting Ukraine.

As of April 18, 2026, the EU continues to navigate internal disagreements over the balance between energy security, sanctions enforcement, and diplomatic objectives related to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.