Slovakia Stands Firm Against EU's Russian Energy Phase-Out

Slovakia's Prime Minister, Robert Fico, has rejected European Commission plans to phase out Russian energy imports, arguing they are unacceptable and would raise EU energy prices. The Commission plans to propose measures to halt Russian gas and oil imports by 2027, affecting EU competitiveness.

Slovakia has rejected the European Commission's intention to phase out Russian energy imports, according to Prime Minister Robert Fico on Wednesday. Fico criticized the proposed measures, stating they are "unacceptable" and would have serious implications for EU energy prices.

The European Commission announced on Tuesday its plan to propose legal measures to phase out Russian gas and liquefied natural gas imports by the end of 2027. The initiative is part of broader efforts to sever EU energy ties with Russia following its invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, impacting EU competitiveness.

Fico expressed concerns over the economic impact of the proposals, describing them as "economic suicide." He underscored Slovakia's reliance on Russian gas and oil, citing potential consequences if Slovakia cancels its Gazprom contract. The proposals, requiring European Parliament and member state approval, face resistance from Slovakia and Hungary, who maintain pipeline supplies from Russia.