Brussels’ ambitious plan to eliminate all Russian gas and energy imports within the next few years is facing fierce resistance from some Eastern European nations. These countries argue that the proposal is tantamount to economic suicide and poses a important threat to their energy security and overall economic stability.

The EU’s Bold Initiative

The European Commission unveiled its strategy on Tuesday, outlining a roadmap to phase out Russian gas, nuclear energy, and liquefied natural gas (LNG) imports by the close of 2027. The commission stated that this initiative paves the way to ensure the EU’s full energy independence from Russia. This move follows previous EU sanctions imposed after Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022,which included bans on most seaborne imports of Russian oil,coal,and refined petroleum products. though, reducing gas dependence has proven to be a more complex challenge.

Eastern Europe’s Concerns

The EU’s proposals have ignited a strong backlash from Eastern European nations, which have historically relied on more affordable energy supplies from Russia. These nations repeatedly warn that banning Russian supplies will lead to higher energy prices for consumers.

Slovakia and Hungary, in particular, have maintained relatively warm relations with Moscow, even amidst the ongoing conflict in ukraine. Both countries have characterized the EU’s latest plans as a serious mistake that will inflict significant harm on the region.

Slovakian Prime Minister’s Strong Words

Slovakian Prime Minister Robert Fico expressed his concerns forcefully, stating:

We recognize the strategic goal of reducing energy dependence on third countries, and Slovakia is ready to work on this together with the European Union but … this is simply economic suicide to agree that neither gas,nor nuclear,nor oil [can be imported from Russia],that everything must end just because some new Iron Curtain is being built between the Western world and perhaps Russia and other countries.
Robert Fico, Slovakian Prime Minister

Fico’s comments, reported by Slovak news agency TASR, highlight the depth of concern within Slovakia regarding the EU’s energy policy.

Hungary’s Viewpoint

Hungarian Foreign Minister Péter Szijjártó echoed these sentiments, labeling the EU’s proposals as politically motivated and a serious mistake.

szijjártó elaborated on his concerns via social media:

It threatens energy security, drives up prices and violates sovereignty. They want us to bear the cost of their reckless support for Ukraine and its rushed EU accession. We firmly reject this.
Péter Szijjártó,Hungarian foreign Minister

both Hungary and Slovakia have consistently resisted previous EU initiatives aimed at severing energy ties with Moscow,opting rather to maintain existing supply arrangements due to fears of escalating energy costs within their respective countries.

Past Resistance and Concessions

Both Hungary and Slovakia have been vocal critics of providing increased military and financial aid to Ukraine. they have also threatened to withhold their support for the EU’s regular extensions of sanctions against Russia. In the past, both nations have sought concessions from the bloc before agreeing to renew sanctions, most recently in March.

EU’s Phased Approach

In announcing its plans to reduce reliance on Russian energy, the EU outlined a phased approach. The initial step involves a ban on all imports of Russian gas (both pipeline and LNG) under new contracts and existing spot contracts, set to take effect by the end of 2025. The remaining imports are to be phased out by the end of 2027.

Approval Process and Potential Obstacles

The Commission’s legislative proposals, slated for presentation in June, will require approval from the European parliament and a qualified majority of member states. This means that a small number of countries cannot unilaterally veto the plans.

European Commissioner for Energy Dan Jorgensen emphasized this point, stating:

We can adopt it without unanimity. I hope that everybody will vote for it, obviously, but if they don’t, that is also ok, that is also part of the European Union that sometimes the majority makes decisions when necessary.
Dan Jorgensen, European Commissioner for Energy

Jorgensen added that the EU is currently in an unacceptable situation due to its dependence on Russia and President Vladimir Putin, who he accused of weaponizing energy. He also asserted that importing Russian gas indirectly contributes to filling the Kremlin’s war chests to continue its war against ukraine.

National Plans and Commission’s response

The Commission has stated that it envisions a gradual and well-coordinated approach across the bloc. Member states are being asked to prepare national plans by the end of this year,setting out how they will contribute to phasing out imports of Russian gas,nuclear energy and oil. It remains uncertain whether Slovakia and hungary will comply with this request.

A commission spokesperson told CNBC that it will work closely with all Member States on the implementation of this plan, especially with those mostly concerned. This is why we are proposing a gradual and well-managed phaseout, which is backed by continuous efforts at diversification and better use of energy infrastructure.

Kremlin’s Response Awaited

CNBC has reached out to the Kremlin for a response to the EU’s proposals and is currently awaiting a reply.