Justice Minister Boris Susko (Smer-SD) said the government is challenging an EU regulation adopted in January this year, which sets out the phased end of Russian gas imports and preparations to halt Russian oil imports.
According to Susko, Slovakia disputes the legal basis of the measure. He argues it was approved as a trade policy decision by qualified majority, even though it has the character of a foreign and security policy measure - an area where unanimous agreement among member states is normally required.
The Minister warned that such a process could upset the balance of power within the EU and weaken the role of individual member states in key decisions.
Susko stressed that the lawsuit is not a conflict with the European Union, but a step to defend its fundamental principles. A ruling by the court could have significant implications, particularly for countries heavily dependent on gas.
Under the regulation, imports of Russian natural gas are set to end by next autumn.
Source: TASR
