Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico will meet with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz ahead of the EU summit this evening, reports Denník N.

They will discuss energy prices and the ban on the sale of internal combustion engine vehicles starting in 2035.

Fico is likely to support sanctions against Russia if Slovakia’s demands are included in the summit conclusions.

Fico announced the meeting with Merz at this morning’s session of the European Committee of Parliament. It is scheduled for 21:15. Earlier, Fico stated that he would block the EU’s 19th sanctions package against Russia if the EU does not accommodate the automotive industry.

According to Fico, Slovakia’s demands have already been included in the draft summit conclusions.

“If we see these conclusions, which we have achieved, I will review them again this evening and will likely inform Chancellor Merz that we agree with the 19th package, which does not affect us but serves as a good negotiating tool,” he told lawmakers.

The EU’s discussion on banning the sale of internal combustion engine vehicles from 2035 is expected to conclude with a compromise. Slovakia insists on softening this restriction.

Fico also said the EU will discuss expanding the carbon emissions quota system.