Slovakia has rejected the European Commission's proposal to phase out Russian gas and other energy imports by the end of 2027. Prime Minister Robert Fico called the plan "unacceptable" in its current form, warning it would raise energy prices across the EU and hurt its economic competitiveness.
The European Commission announced it would propose legal measures next month to end imports of Russian gas, liquefied natural gas (LNG), and introduce trade restrictions on Russian enriched uranium. The goal is to sever long-standing energy ties with Russia following its 2022 invasion of Ukraine.
Fico said while he supports reducing reliance on foreign energy, the EU’s plan could amount to "economic suicide", criticizing what he described as a new ideological divide between the West and countries like Russia. He added that Slovakia would push for changes during the legislative process.
The Commission's proposals will need backing from the European Parliament and a qualified majority of member states to become law.
Slovakia, which still receives gas and oil from Russia, has raised concerns about the consequences of terminating its long-term supply contract with Gazprom. Last year, 10 of the EU's 27 member states imported Russian gas. While most Russian oil has been sanctioned, gas imports continue via TurkStream and LNG, with Slovakia and Hungary opposing a full gas ban due to their dependence and closer ties to Moscow.
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On July 25, Azerbaijan’s Foreign Minister Jeyhun Bayramov met with outgoing Slovak Ambassador Milan Lajcak to review bilateral cooperation and regional developments as the envoy concludes his mission in Baku.
Start your day informed with AnewZ Morning Brief: here are the top news stories for 18th July, covering the latest developments you need to know.
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