Slovakia is joining Hungary in a legal challenge to a European Union decision to phase out Russian natural gas imports by late 2027, escalating tensions over energy policy within the bloc. Both nations argue the ban-approved by a qualified majority-disregards their national interests and dependence on Russian supplies [[1]].The legal action highlights deepening divisions regarding energy independence and raises questions about the EU’s ability to enforce a unified approach, notably as other nations, like Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania, experienced economic hardship after quickly cutting ties with Russian energy [[2]], [[3]].
Slovakia has joined Hungary in announcing it will challenge a recent European Union decision in the EU Court of Justice.
The dispute centers on a January decision to ban imports of Russian natural gas, which officials in both Budapest and Bratislava claim was enacted without proper consideration of their national interests. The move highlights the ongoing divisions within the EU regarding energy policy and reliance on Russian resources.
According to a statement released by Hungarian officials, the ban was pushed through using a qualified majority vote, circumventing the objections of Hungary and Slovakia, both of which remain heavily dependent on Russian energy supplies and seek to maintain ties with Moscow.
“In reality, this was a sanctions decision requiring unanimity among member states, not a trade decision which only requires a qualified majority,” a minister stated.
The minister further emphasized that EU treaties guarantee each member state the right to independently choose its energy sources and suppliers. He also pointed to the principle of energy solidarity, which requires ensuring the security of energy supplies for all member states.
In Hungary’s case, the EU decision demonstrably violates this principle, as the country faces only more expensive and less reliable alternatives to Russian gas supplies, the minister argued. The development underscores the challenges facing the EU in achieving a unified energy policy.
The EU-backed ban, approved by a majority of member states, mandates a complete halt to Russian natural gas imports by the end of 2027.
