Hungary and Slovakia, despite having the technical and economic capacity to diversify their energy supply, continue to significantly rely on Russian energy sources. According to a study by the Center for the Study of Democracy (CSD) and the Centre for Research on Energy and Clean Air (CREA), both countries have failed to take advantage of available alternatives, contradicting broader European efforts to reduce dependence on Russia, reports the Baltimore Chronicle with reference to CSD.
In the oil sector, both countries have access to the Croatian pipeline, which has a throughput capacity exceeding their domestic needs. Nevertheless, in 2024, Hungary increased its import of Russian oil to 86%, while Slovakia maintained near-total dependence.
When it comes to natural gas, alternative supply routes have a throughput capacity three times greater than current Russian deliveries. However, Hungary and Slovakia have continued to rely on Russian gas, with dependence rising from 57% in 2021 to 70% in 2024.
In the nuclear sector, both nations remain reliant on Russian nuclear fuel for their VVER-type reactors. In 2024, imports of this fuel rose by 105% compared to 2021.
These trends run counter to the European Union’s energy security policies and its sanctions against Russia, undermining the EU’s efforts to reduce its reliance on Russian energy.
Earlier we wrote that Hungary and Slovakia block military aid to Ukraine over energy dispute.