Slovak PM slams EU's energy shift as economic suicide

Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico has fiercely criticised the EU’s initiative to phase out Russian energy resources, describing the move as "economic suicide."

Speaking at a press conference, Fico voiced strong concerns over the European Commission's "roadmap" for reducing reliance on Russian energy supplies, a plan that is central to the EU's energy strategy amid the ongoing geopolitical tensions, Caliber.Az reports, citing Russian media. 

"This is economic suicide," Fico remarked. "To reach a point where there is no gas, no oil, no nuclear fuel—nothing—just because a new 'iron curtain' is being established between the Western world and, potentially, Russia and other countries," he added, emphasising the potentially disastrous economic consequences of such a drastic shift.

Fico also warned that the EU's decision to completely abandon Russian energy sources was an "extremely dangerous game," one that could have severe ramifications for both Slovakia and the wider European economy. 

He expressed concerns that, without careful consideration, the transition could result in significant disruptions in energy supplies, which could lead to higher prices and economic instability. As a member state of the EU, Slovakia is committed to ensuring that the European Commission takes into account the risks associated with this sweeping decision.

By Naila Huseynova