Ukraine War: Slovakia supports sanctions on Russia as Belgium calls for negotiations

Saturday 14 March 2026 - 20:00

The war in Ukraine continues to reshape political positions across Europe as governments debate how to respond to the prolonged conflict with Russia.

Since the launch of Russia’s large-scale invasion of Ukraine on 24 February 2022, the war has triggered sweeping sanctions, military aid packages and diplomatic tensions across the international community.

Slovakia backs EU sanctions

In the latest development, Slovakia agreed to renew sanctions imposed by the European Union against thousands of Russian individuals and entities.

These sanctions, which target business leaders, officials and organizations connected to Russia, must be extended every six months with the unanimous approval of all EU member states.

Bratislava had initially hesitated before giving its approval, reportedly seeking adjustments to the list of sanctioned figures. In the end, the measures were renewed, maintaining pressure on Moscow as the conflict continues.

Iran dismisses Ukrainian initiatives

Diplomatic tensions have also emerged beyond Europe. An Iranian diplomat in Ukraine recently downplayed Kyiv’s efforts to support anti-drone defense initiatives in the Middle East.

The remarks came as Ukrainian authorities highlight their growing experience in countering unmanned aerial attacks during the war.

Iranian-made drones have played a significant role in the conflict, with Moscow reportedly using them in several large-scale strikes. Ukrainian forces have developed advanced defensive tactics in response to these threats.

Deadly strikes reported in Ukraine

Ukrainian officials reported that several regions of the country were targeted in large-scale Russian strikes. According to authorities, at least four people were killed and more than a dozen others injured.

President Volodymyr Zelensky said energy infrastructure in the region around the capital Kyiv appeared to be a primary target, although residential buildings, schools and civilian facilities were also affected.

Ukraine’s air force reported intercepting a large portion of the drones and missiles launched during the attack.

Belgium calls for a negotiated settlement

Meanwhile, political debate continues within Europe over the best path toward ending the conflict.

The prime minister of Belgium, Bart De Wever, recently suggested that negotiations could ultimately be necessary to reach a lasting peace.

According to the Belgian leader, weakening Russia solely through military or economic pressure would be difficult without full support from the United States.

As the war enters another year, diplomatic divisions and strategic debates within Europe illustrate the complexity of finding a resolution to one of the most significant conflicts on the continent in decades.