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Slovakia to Challenge EU's Russian Gas Import Ban at European Court

Published January 27, 2026, 13:10
Slovakia to Challenge EU's Russian Gas Import Ban at European Court

Slovakia will appeal to the European Court against the EU's decision to ban imports of Russian natural gas until 2027. The country, along with Hungary, had opposed the decision, considering it harmful to their economies. Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico argues that the ban violates the principles of subsidiarity and proportionality, and estimates it will cost his country 500 million euros annually. The EU has agreed to halt imports of liquefied natural gas from Russia by the end of the year and pipeline gas by September 30, 2027, with a possible extension under certain conditions. Fico expressed hope that the war in Ukraine will be over by then, allowing for a more rational approach.