European Union mulling order for Sputnik V - report

The European Union is reportedly considering ordering Russia’s Sputnik V Covid-19 vaccine, as it looks to get its embattled vaccination programme back on track.

The bloc has signed deals with a number of vaccine makers, including AstraZeneca and Pfizer. But is has been criticised for the slow rollout of its vaccination programme, prompting Hungary and Slovakia to place their own orders with Russia.

The EU has previously dismissed the Sputnik vaccine. But according to Reuters, who cited an unnamed official who negotiates with vaccine makers on behalf of the bloc, more governments were now considering talking to the vaccine’s developers.

As well as Hungary and Slovakia, the Czech Republic and Italy are also thought to be interested in Sputnik V.

While the UK’s vaccination programmes has been gathering pace, allowing some lockdown restrictions to be lifted, mainland Europe is facing a third wave of Covid infections. Hit initially with supply issues, its vaccination programme is being further hampered by concerns about potential side effects linked to the AstraZeneca vaccine.

The EU has so far not commented on the report.