Fico vs. EU: Lawsuit threat over Russian gas heats up
Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico (Photo: Getty Images)
Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico said the government is considering suing the EU over plans to halt Russian gas supplies, according to Reuters.
On Wednesday, November 19, Fico, known for his pro-Russian stance and criticism of EU sanctions, announced that Slovakia may take legal action against the European Union.
The dispute stems from Brussels’ requirement to completely stop importing Russian gas by 2028.
According to Fico, he has already instructed the ministers of economy, foreign affairs, and justice to prepare a legal analysis and assess the chances of a successful lawsuit.
The prime minister explained that, like Hungary, Slovakia remains heavily dependent on Russian gas and oil, and a sudden shift in suppliers could lead to price spikes and economic losses.
“There will be a document discussed by the government next week, where we will consider the possibility of filing a lawsuit,” Fico said.
He also recalled that the European Commission had previously reportedly offered Slovakia guarantees for compensation in case of energy shortages or sharp fuel price increases. However, he did not specify the potential amount of the lawsuit or its legal basis.
The EU has not yet commented on the possibility of legal action from Bratislava.
European Union is moving away from Russian gas
Last month, EU energy ministers agreed on a plan to gradually phase out Russian oil and gas imports by January 2028.
The proposal aims to replace Russian energy with alternative suppliers, reducing dependence on Moscow amid the war in Ukraine. Final rules still need approval from the European Parliament, which is currently reviewing its position.
Slovakia and Hungary have sharply criticized the plan, as both remain heavily reliant on Russian gas and oil and fear the economic impact of more expensive alternatives.
Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán stated that Budapest does not intend to stop importing Russian gas and oil. Meanwhile, Ukraine is helping Slovakia seek alternatives, with President Volodymyr Zelenskyy assuring Bratislava access to other energy markets to reduce reliance on Russia.
The vote on Russian gas relied on a simple majority, so Slovakia could not block the process, unlike sanction packages, which require unanimity.
