EU Commission experts visit Slovakia to discuss ending Russian gas imports

Brussels/Bratislava - In a significant development regarding energy policy, experts from the European Commission are set to visit Slovakia within this week. This visit is part of a high-level working group established early in the year to support Slovakia's transition away from Russian energy imports. The delegation aims to evaluate the repercussions and strategies tied to the REPowerEU plan, which aims to halt energy imports from Russia by the close of 2027. The European Commission had previously unveiled this legislative proposal on June 17, emphasizing the necessity for cooperation with member states to ensure a steady energy supply during this transition. Slovakia's position on this matter has been of notable concern, especially as it anticipates the visit from European Commission representatives to finalize plans. Prime Minister Robert Fico has explicitly stated Slovakia's hesitations regarding the proposed sanctions, linking their support to the guarantees for an altered import schedule. He voiced these concerns directly to EC President Ursula von der Leyen ahead of the recent European Council meeting. The Slovak government holds reservations that completely disconnecting from Russian energy sources could result in increased costs and logistical burdens in the energy market. This transition away from Russian gas is part of a broader European effort not only to diminish dependence on a single energy supplier but also to support long-term decarbonization goals. The initiative centers on creating a more resilient energy union within Europe, bolstered by a cohesive plan to diversify energy sources and enhance infrastructure. However, Slovakia's apprehensions about the potential economic fallout highlight the complexities involved in executing such significant reforms amidst the current geopolitical climate. Ultimately, the discussions this week will carry substantial weight for both Slovakia and EU energy policy. As the Commission engages with local authorities, careful attention will be paid to balancing the immediate economic implications against long-term strategic objectives. The team will likely focus on ways to mitigate potential adverse effects while reinforcing the commitment to phasing out reliance on Russian gas in alignment with the broader EU legislative framework.