Slovakia's Legal Battle Against EU's Russian Gas Ban

Slovakia plans to challenge the EU's decision to ban Russian gas imports by filing a lawsuit at the EU's Court of Justice. Prime Minister Robert Fico criticized the regulation, which was adopted by a qualified majority, and plans to seek a preliminary injunction by the end of April.

In a significant development, Slovakia has announced imminent plans to contest the European Union's decision to ban Russian gas imports. The lawsuit, to be filed with the EU's Court of Justice, was confirmed by Prime Minister Robert Fico on Friday, signaling strong disagreement with the way the decision was reached.

The import ban, set to take effect by 2027, was approved earlier this year, overcoming dissent from Slovakia and Hungary. The Slovak government perceives the decision as a breach of EU treaty principles, arguing that such significant measures should require unanimous consent.

Hungary has already lodged a lawsuit against the ban, and Slovakia's legal challenge is expected to follow soon, with Prime Minister Fico aiming to meet the April 27 deadline. Despite EU moves to reduce dependence on Russian energy, both Slovakia and Hungary continue receiving Russian gas, underscoring a complex geopolitical landscape.

(With inputs from agencies.)