The European Union plans to finally end imports of Russian oil and gas by January 2028 at the latest. On Monday in Luxembourg, the energy ministers of the EU member states supported the EU Council's proposal, which aims to gradually end dependence on Russian fossil fuels.
According to the adopted plan, no new contracts for the import of Russian gas will be concluded from January 2026 onwards. Short-term contracts are to expire by June 2026, while long-term contracts must be terminated by January 2028 at the latest.
The Slovak gas industry warned back in June of the serious consequences of the decision to ban imports of Russian natural gas from 2028. If Slovakia terminates its long-term contract with Gazprom, the Russian supplier could demand payment for gas not taken up under the “take or pay” principle – to the tune of up to €16 billion.
In addition, Slovakian suppliers would have to secure replacement supplies from the West, which would be significantly more expensive.
(reuters, max)