Slovakia says US understands need for Russian oil imports until 2027

US: The United States government has engaged directly with Slovakia on energy security matters under the current administration. It has signaled strong support for Slovakia's timeline to end Russian oil imports by the end of 2027 and is positioned to help enable this shift through diplomatic and practical measures. Recent discussions in Washington focused on potential US LNG exports and regional infrastructure options. Slovakia: Slovakia is a Central European country and European Union member actively managing its energy transition away from Russian fossil fuels. It is seeking US exemptions to continue limited Russian oil imports through 2027 while developing alternatives such as the Adria pipeline and LNG supplies. Economy Minister Denisa Sakova recently conveyed US backing for these diversification efforts during bilateral talks. Denisa Sakova: Denisa Sakova serves as Slovakia's Economy Minister and has led recent high-level energy negotiations with US counterparts. She reported absolute US understanding of Slovakia's need for Russian oil and gas imports until the end of 2027 amid ongoing diversification. Sakova is also advancing plans for long-term US LNG contracts and alternative supply routes to meet EU requirements. Diplomacy: The US administration expressed support for Slovakia's energy transition plans during meetings involving White House advisors and Treasury officials. Energy Security: Slovakia is prioritizing the Adria pipeline as the primary near-term alternative for oil deliveries while pursuing US LNG deals to replace Russian gas. Policy Alignment: Slovakia must comply with an EU-wide prohibition on Russian gas imports by autumn 2027 and is coordinating exemptions for oil with US sanctions policy.