Slovakia and Hungary responded to pressure from U.S. President Donald Trump to cut imports of Russian oil and gas, stating that EU support would be provided only after ensuring adequate alternative supplies and developed infrastructure. Bloomberg reports.
In Bratislava, Slovakia’s Minister of Economy Denisa Saková emphasized that the main priority is not to cause serious damage to industry and the economy during the transition, so the right conditions must be in place going forward.
She also noted that for a sustainable diversification of the import chain, a strong infrastructure and alternative supply routes must be created.
“Before we can fully commit, we need to create the right conditions, otherwise we risk seriously harming our industry and economy.”
– Minister of Economy of Slovakia Denisa Saková
Reaction to Trump’s Pressure
As Bloomberg notes, this is about new pressure from the U.S. on EU countries to fully stop imports of Russian energy supplies, which could negatively affect Slovakia and Hungary.
Hungary’s Minister in the Prime Minister’s Office Gergely Gulyás reiterated that his country will reject EU initiatives that could threaten the security of energy supplies.
“When this directly conflicts with Hungarian interests, for example regarding the purchase of energy resources, then we will veto”
– Gergely Gulyás
Saková also said that she clearly voiced Slovakia’s position during talks with U.S. Energy Secretary Chris Rait in Vienna this week. She added that the American official understands the need to stimulate energy projects in Europe.
Last week, Donald Trump said he would impose “significant” sanctions on Russia if NATO countries also renounce imports of oil from the Russian Federation. The Bratislava government is ready to sever energy ties with Russia provided there is appropriate infrastructure to transport volumes.
“As long as we have an alternative route and sufficient transport capacity, Slovakia has no trouble with diversification”
– Minister of Economy of Slovakia Denisa Saková
In general, experts emphasize that a full cut in supplies from Russia could pose risks for countries at the ends of the routes. Both Slovakia and Hungary have historically depended on Russian energy sources, but since 2022 they have been actively working on diversifying supply.
Analysts estimate Slovakia imports about a third of its oil from non-Russian sources via ADRIA and has contracts with Western gas suppliers. Hungary continues to safeguard energy supply stability and resists EU moves that threaten its supplies.
Currently both countries are working to reduce dependence on Russian imports within the European diversification strategy, with a focus on energy efficiency and new supplies from various sources.
“NATO countries’ rejection of his terms regarding halting oil imports and imposing tariffs on China would only waste the United States’ time, energy and money in its efforts to end the war started by Russia against Ukraine.”
– Donald Trump
Overall, Slovakia and Hungary continue to refine their energy strategies to reduce dependence on Russian imports while ensuring a reliable supply of energy for residents and industry.