Hungary and Slovakia can stop depending on Russian energy, report says

According to a report by the Centre for the Study of Democracy (CSD) and the Centre for Research on Energy and Clean Air (CREA), Hungary and Slovakia have a real opportunity to end their long-term dependence on Russian gas and oil.

However, both countries, which are often seen as pro-Kremlin within the EU, have not yet seized this opportunity. Instead, since the start of the war on Ukraine in 2022, they have deepened their energy dependence on Russia, thanks to exemptions from EU sanctions that allow them to continue importing Russian raw materials.

The report reveals alarming figures: Hungary has increased the share of Russian oil in its consumption from 61 % in 2022 to 86 % in 2024, while Slovakia is almost 100% dependent on Russian oil and gas. Since the outbreak of the war, the two countries have paid €5.4 billion in oil taxes to Russia, which CREA estimates could have financed up to 1,800 Russian Iskander-M missiles used in the conflict in Ukraine. These funds are thus indirectly contributing to the continuation of a war that is destabilising the entire region.

Although there are viable alternatives - for example, importing liquefied natural gas (LNG) from the US or Qatar, or oil via Croatia's Adria pipeline - Hungary and Slovakia continue to favour cheaper Russian supplies. According to the report, this approach has earned them profits of hundreds of millions of euros, as they can buy raw materials below market price while benefiting from exemptions from EU sanctions. However, analysts warn that this strategy is short-sighted and threatens the long-term energy security of both countries and the EU as a whole.

The European Union has an ambitious plan to end its dependence on Russian fossil fuels by 2027, which includes Hungary and Slovakia. However, this plan is facing resistance from both countries, whose governments have repeatedly threatened to veto further sanctions against Russia. They argue that they are worried about rising energy prices, which they say could have a negative impact on households and industry. However, critics point out that these governments are using energy policy as a tool to strengthen their power.

The situation is causing tensions not only within the EU but also within NATO, as Hungary and Slovakia play a key role in the eastern flank of the alliance. If these countries continue their dependence on Russia, it could weaken the West's unity in support of Ukraine and complicate energy diversification efforts in Europe. The CREA and CSD report therefore calls for a rapid transition to alternative sources and for more pressure from Brussels to stop Hungary and Slovakia undermining the EU's common goals.

Politico/gnews.cz - cik