Hungary and Slovakia have voiced strong opposition to the European Union’s proposal to halt imports of Russian gas and liquefied natural gas (LNG), a measure that Brussels is preparing to formalize in the near future. Despite the objections raised by these two countries, the new legislation may still advance without their support.
The European Commission is currently working on introducing legal measures that aim to end all Russian gas and LNG imports to the EU by the end of 2027. This initiative builds on a plan that was unveiled last month and now includes specific details regarding how the legislation would be implemented throughout the European Union.
At a recent meeting, Hungary and Slovakia blocked EU energy ministers from issuing a unified statement in favor of the proposal. Although 25 EU member states expressed their approval of the plan, Hungary and Slovakia declined to endorse the joint position, citing concerns related to national sovereignty and energy security. Hungarian Foreign Minister Peter Szijjarto emphasized that energy policy remains a matter of national competence, reaffirming his country’s opposition to the initiative. Slovakia also communicated its refusal through its representation in the EU.
According to EU officials, the European Commission plans to move forward by utilizing legal mechanisms that would enable the legislation to pass with a reinforced majority. This procedure requires the support of at least 15 member states that collectively represent no less than 65 percent of the EU population, in addition to a majority vote in the European Parliament.
While most energy ministers signaled their backing during closed-door discussions held on Monday, some raised concerns about potential legal and financial risks. In particular, there were apprehensions that energy companies could face lawsuits or financial penalties if they are compelled to breach existing long-term contracts for gas supplies.
