Slovakia Pushes for EU Agreement to End Russian Gas Imports by Tuesday

Slovakia is racing against time to finalize a deal with the European Union that would allow it to support a new sanctions package targeting Russian energy, Prime Minister Robert Fico announced on Saturday. The agreement, which Slovakia hopes to secure by Tuesday, is expected to include key protections for the country’s energy stability as it prepares to cut its reliance on Russian gas.

Fico stated that Slovakia cannot accept the EU’s proposed gas restrictions unless there are firm guarantees to shield its economy from negative impacts. "We want political commitments that ensure we won't be left in a worse position than before," he said during a press briefing in Bratislava.

Slovakia has long depended on Russian natural gas for much of its energy needs. A current supply contract with Russia is set to continue until 2034, providing the country with billions of cubic meters annually. However, with the EU pushing for a full phase-out of Russian gas imports by 2028, countries like Slovakia that are more reliant on Russian energy are demanding tailored solutions.

The urgency stems from recent disruptions, including Ukraine’s decision to end Russian gas transit across its territory starting this year. As a result, Slovakia has been forced to reroute gas imports through southern corridors — particularly via Hungary and the TurkStream pipeline — a shift that could come with increased costs.

To avoid financial and logistical strain, Slovakia is negotiating to secure limits on future transit fees and other economic safeguards as part of the EU deal. Fico made it clear that while Slovakia supports EU unity, it won’t back a sanctions plan that harms its national interests.

The proposed EU sanctions package is the 18th of its kind and requires unanimous support from all member states to pass. Slovakia’s current veto blocks the entire initiative — something Fico hinted could change if Tuesday’s talks go well.

The prime minister also revealed that discussions are ongoing with key EU leaders, including counterparts from Germany and Poland. He expressed hope that a fair compromise could be reached, saying, "We need to wrap this up soon. The pressure is growing on all sides."

If a deal is reached, Slovakia is expected to lift its veto, allowing the EU to move forward with its broader strategy of cutting off Russian energy revenues.