On Monday, Slovakia, alongside Hungary, blocked an EU Council declaration on energy security due to a proposed ban on Russian gas imports by the end of 2027. The two countries were the only dissenters, as Poland — holding the EU Council Presidency — pushed forward conclusions aimed at strengthening the EU's energy union during the Telecommunications and Energy Council meeting in Luxembourg.
The proposed ban is part of broader efforts to reduce the EU’s strategic energy dependence and enhance resilience in response to Russia’s war in Ukraine. Slovakia’s opposition reflects its continued reliance on Russian gas and concerns about energy affordability and supply security. It also highlights tensions between national energy priorities and EU-wide goals to phase out Russian energy imports.
Despite the veto, 25 EU member states endorsed commitments to invest in energy infrastructure, advance renewable energy, and complete a unified energy market. The conclusions also promote support for Ukraine and Moldova’s energy systems, regulatory reform, and innovation aimed at achieving climate neutrality by 2050.
Source: TASR
