Pro-Russia Slovak PM Fico blasts EU's climate policies in bold declaration during a press conference

Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico criticized the EU’s new ETS-2 emissions trading system, calling it a “nonsensical permit scheme” that will burden citizens with higher gas, fuel, and heating costs. Fico blamed previous governments for approving the policy and confirmed Slovakia is delaying its implementation despite EU infringement proceedings. He also reaffirmed Slovakia’s opposition to ending Russian gas imports from 2028, saying the country voted against the move. Fico demanded an “emergency brake” on gas prices and defended using EU funds for energy assistance, accusing opposition leaders of spreading lies about Slovakia’s energy and environmental policy.