Written question – Constructive discussion and loyal cooperation ‘replaced’ by a different legal basis? – E-002510/2025

Question for written answer  E-002510/2025
to the Commission
Rule 144
Erik Kaliňák (NI)

There has been speculation in the media that the EU plans to ‘legally bypass’ Hungary and Slovakia in order to ban Russian gas imports by 2027, using trade and energy legal bases that do not require unanimity[1].

• 1.Can the Commission confirm the accuracy of these speculations?
• 2.Does the Commission consider it appropriate to ‘bend’ EU law by simply bypassing a Member State if it does not agree with a proposed measure on grounds of national interest by using an alternative legal basis?
• 3.Does the Commission not consider such an approach to be a threat to the principle of loyal cooperation?

Submitted: 23.6.2025

• [1] https://tvpworld.com/87329765/eu-unveils-plans-to-bypass-hungary-and-slovakia-vetoes-on-russian-gas-imports-ban