Cutting Off Russian Gas to EU Will Have ‘Drastic’ Impact, Slovak PM Warns

Slovak Prime Minister, Eduard Heger, has issued a stern warning about the potential consequences of cutting off Russian gas supplies to the European Union, calling such a move “drastic” and potentially devastating for the region’s energy security.
In recent weeks, the EU has intensified its efforts to reduce dependency on Russian energy sources, especially in light of the ongoing geopolitical tensions stemming from Russia’s actions in Ukraine. However, Slovakia, which relies heavily on Russian gas, has expressed deep concerns over the potential impact of a complete severance.
Prime Minister Heger emphasized that the EU’s reliance on Russian gas cannot be quickly or easily replaced, and an abrupt cessation would lead to significant challenges in meeting the energy needs of many European nations. He warned that it could trigger widespread economic disruption, energy shortages, and price hikes for consumers.
“While we understand the geopolitical reasons behind the push to cut off Russian gas, we must be mindful of the practical consequences,” Heger stated. “The repercussions would be drastic, not only for Slovakia but for the entire EU.”
Slovakia, like many other central and eastern European countries, has been working to diversify its energy sources, including seeking alternatives from other suppliers and boosting renewable energy projects. However, Heger acknowledged that the transition away from Russian energy dependence would take time and substantial investment.
The EU has been exploring various strategies, such as building new infrastructure to import liquefied natural gas (LNG) and increasing energy efficiency, but the process remains complex. As the EU debates its next steps, the Slovak Prime Minister’s comments highlight the delicate balance between energy security, political considerations, and the economic stability of member states.