SNS's Danko Condemns Foreign Minister Blanar's Support of Anti-Russian Sanctions

Bratislava, 21 May (TASR) - Anti-Russian sanctions isolate the European Union, reduce its competitiveness, and destroy the value of the euro, stated coalition Slovak National Party (SNS) leader Andrej Danko at a press conference on Wednesday, while condemning Foreign Minister Juraj Blanar (Smer-SD) for supporting another package of EU sanctions against Russia. "I want to condemn yesterday's vote by Juraj Blanar. On Friday (23 May), at the Coalition Council, I want to call on Robert Fico (Smer-SD) to review Juraj Blanar's mandate," said Danko. He emphasised that SNS doesn't identify with this vote and refuses to bear responsibility for the foreign minister's decision. According to Danko, Tuesday's vote also affects, among other things, the operations of Slovnaft refinery, which could lead to higher fuel prices. Danko noted that rising energy costs will gradually impact all sectors, including households. "Everyone, even if you don't feel it just yet, will be affected by rising energy prices. It will destroy household budgets," he stated. On Tuesday, the foreign ministers of European Union member states approved the 17th package of sanctions against Russia. lin