Slovakia and Hungary Reiterate Opposition to EU's Russian Energy Phase-Out Plan

Leaders Criticize EU Energy Strategy

Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico and Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán have once again voiced their strong disapproval of the European Union's strategy to eliminate Russian oil and gas imports. Speaking on September 28, 2025, at the Maria Valeria Bridge connecting Sturovo, Slovakia, and Esztergom, Hungary, both leaders characterized the EU's push as a 'political and ideological decision' that disregards the practical realities and economic well-being of member states.

Prime Minister Fico asserted, 'No one should tell us where to buy oil and gas from. Because under international law, it is a sovereign country that decides its energy mix.' He further stated that cutting off Europe entirely from Russian energy would not only harm Slovakia and Hungary the most but also significantly damage the entire European Union. Hungarian Prime Minister Orbán echoed these sentiments, accusing Brussels of pursuing policies that would undermine the region.

Economic and Infrastructural Constraints Cited

The core of Slovakia's and Hungary's resistance stems from deep-seated economic concerns and significant infrastructural dependencies. Prime Minister Orbán has repeatedly warned that if Hungary were to suspend purchases of Russian gas and oil, its economy would immediately contract by 4 percent, leading to widespread financial hardship. He emphasized that Hungary, being landlocked, relies entirely on pipelines for its energy imports, with current infrastructure primarily built during the communist era.

Similarly, Slovak President Peter Pellegrini recently informed former U.S. President Donald Trump that Slovakia cannot swiftly replace Russian oil and gas supplies due to substantial technical and logistical constraints. He stressed the necessity for a diversified energy strategy, requiring three to four alternative sources and international technical and logistical support to facilitate any transition. Both countries remain among the few EU members still heavily importing Russian oil and gas, with Hungary's reliance on Russian oil increasing to 86 percent and Slovakia being almost entirely dependent.

EU's Accelerated Phase-Out Plans and International Pressure

Despite the objections from Bratislava and Budapest, the European Union is moving forward with plans to accelerate its phase-out of Russian energy. The European Commission announced last week its intention to introduce tariffs on Russian oil imports still flowing into the EU via Hungary and Slovakia. Furthermore, the EU is preparing its 19th sanctions package, which includes a ban on Russian liquefied natural gas (LNG) imports by January 2027, aiming to cut off crucial revenue streams for Russia.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has indicated an accelerated timeline, aiming to completely phase out Russian oil and gas imports by the end of 2025, a faster approach than the previously set 2027 or 2028 deadlines. This push comes amid growing pressure from figures like former U.S. President Donald Trump, who has urged NATO allies to cease buying Russian energy. However, Hungarian Foreign Minister Péter Szijjártó has stated that it is 'impossible' to ensure a safe supply for Hungary without Russian energy, citing geographical limitations.

Continued Divergence on Energy Policy

The firm stance taken by Slovakia and Hungary highlights a significant divergence within the EU regarding energy policy towards Russia. While the broader bloc seeks to reduce its dependence on Russian fossil fuels to diminish Moscow's war funding, these two nations prioritize national energy security and economic stability, arguing that a rapid and unsupported transition would be catastrophic. The ongoing debate underscores the complex challenges facing the EU in maintaining unity on sanctions while accommodating the unique energy needs of its member states.