EU Promises Slovakia Support with Phasing Out of Russian Gas

Bratislava/Brussels, 15 July (TASR) – The European Commission and Slovakia have developed an “ambitious and comprehensive” joint action plan to support the gradual phase-out of Russian natural gas imports, acknowledging Slovakia’s specific national challenges. The plan includes the creation of a dedicated task force to assist Slovakia, monitor progress, and facilitate cooperation with other EU member states, grid operators, and alternative suppliers. In a letter to Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico (Smer-SD), Commission President Ursula von der Leyen confirmed the Commission’s commitment to helping implement the plan and address Slovakia’s unique needs through bilateral and regional coordination. The plan outlines short- and medium-term measures focused on gas infrastructure, transit capacities, regulatory issues such as transport fees, and a regionally tailored demand aggregation mechanism. The Commission also pledged to clarify the activation criteria and mechanisms for a so-called "emergency brake" in case of extreme price spikes or supply threats. It committed to developing a solution for cross-border fees in the oil and gas sector, specifically for Slovakia or the surrounding region, aimed at reducing costs and reflecting Slovakia’s specific circumstances. The EU executive promised to support Slovakia in boosting energy security and lowering final prices for electricity and gas, including through fast-tracked state aid approval. In addition, the Commission is open to legal consultation and potential intervention in arbitration proceedings stemming from the gas phase-out regulation. The Commission will work with Slovakia to explore the use of EU funds to offset impacts on households and industry, support diversification, and mitigate energy-related risks, particularly in cases of decommitment risks. The letter acknowledges Slovakia’s request to include a review clause by 30 June 2027, or immediately after a comprehensive peace agreement between Russia and Ukraine. This clause would assess whether the phase-out measures remain justified and in line with the EU’s strategic interests, including their impact on gas prices and economic competitiveness. The Commission stated it intends to consider Slovakia’s proposals positively during the legislative process, provided they are properly substantiated. mf