EU ministers have formally approved a plan to phase out imports of Russian gas by the end of 2027. The move is part of the EU’s REPowerEU strategy, aimed at cutting energy dependence on Russia and speeding up the shift to cleaner energy. Slovakia voted against the plan, citing economic risks and concerns over energy security. Despite this, the legislation passed with a qualified majority.
Hungary and Slovakia now plan to challenge the decision at the EU Court of Justice. Foreign Ministry State Secretary Marek Eštok said Slovakia, as a landlocked country without direct access to LNG terminals, faces limited and costly alternatives. Prime Minister Robert Fico (SMER-SD) criticised the decision, calling it ideologically driven. Brussels says joint EU gas purchases and renewables will help offset the impact.
Source: STVR, TASR