Slovakia has not lifted its veto on the EU's 18th sanctions package against Russia. It is unlikely to be approved this week, according to Radio Free Europe's Brussels correspondent Rikard Jozwiak. "The 18th sanctions package on Russia is not expected to be approved until next week at the earliest.

The EU's 27 leaders have agreed to extend sanctions on Russia for another six months, resolving fears that Kremlin-friendly Hungary would let the measures lapse, officials said.

BRUSSELS (Reuters) -EU leaders agreed on Thursday to renew sanctions imposed against Russia over Moscow's war in Ukraine for another six months, two EU officials said.