Hungary and Slovakia have put forth a demand for the removal of seven Russians from the European Union's sanctions list, according to reports from Rikard Jozwiak of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty. This request comes in the context of negotiations to renew individual sanctions against Russia, which are set to expire soon. The deadline for this renewal is 15 March, heightening the urgency for the involved parties to reach an agreement.

The report indicates that the European Union's counteroffer suggests a one-year renewal of the sanctions while removing two additional individuals that the EU considers to be weak cases. This situation has been a point of contention, as both Hungary and Slovakia previously attempted to exclude six Russian citizens from the sanctions list during the last renewal period in September 2025, but were unsuccessful in their efforts.

The ongoing discussions about sanctions reflect the broader geopolitical tensions and the complexities within the EU regarding its stance on Russia. The actions of Hungary and Slovakia may indicate a growing divide among EU member states concerning how to approach sanctions, particularly as the situation in Ukraine and relations with Russia continue to evolve.