The Czech Republic has proposed accelerated gas aid to Slovakia following the EU's decision to phase out Russian gas imports, with only Hungary and Slovakia opposing the initiative due to concerns over energy security and potential price hikes.

Czech Minister of Industry and Trade Lukáš Vlček acknowledged these concerns as justified but emphasized that both countries had sufficient time to prepare by diversifying supplies and modernizing infrastructure.

Vlček also stated that it is technically feasible for Europe to fully cut off Russian gas supplies and offered Slovakia cooperation, which Slovakia has acknowledged.

Recent developments include new energy agreements between Ukraine and Slovakia, as announced by President Zelenskyy, which are shaping the regional energy landscape.

Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico highlighted Slovakia's significant aid to Ukraine but criticized the one-sided nature of their relations, citing issues like Ukraine's cessation of gas supplies through its territory, which negatively impacted Slovakia.

Media reports indicate that Hungary and Slovakia are preparing for potential EU trade measures against the Russian Druzhba pipeline, reflecting ongoing tensions within EU energy policy.

Fico opposes the EU plan to stop Russian gas by 2028, linking this stance to broader sanctions against Russia and calling for a postponement of related votes.

Currently, the Czech Republic receives oil via the western route through the TAL and IKL pipelines, with supplies from the Russian Druzhba pipeline halted since March, indicating a shift towards diversified sources.

While Slovakia and Hungary expressed concerns about energy security and supply routes, Vlček pointed out that the Czech Republic had modernized its infrastructure and secured gas storage, unlike some other EU member states.