Slovak authorities allocated substantial funds to cushion businesses from soaring electricity and gas costs, totaling roughly 56.5 million euros in compensation. This financial support reflects a broader effort that has benefited more than 43,000 commercial entities, as reported by knowledgeable industry outlets. The overall program, described in successive updates, shows that the administration has processed a large volume of applications, underscoring the government’s commitment to stabilizing energy expenses for enterprises during a period of sharp price increases.
By the end of the most recent reporting period, the Slovak Ministry of Economy had approved 56,301 applications from businesses, small enterprises, and church institutions for a combined amount surpassing 84 million euros. Within this total, over 43,000 applications were accepted, translating to about 56.5 million euros in support for organizations facing elevated energy bills. The authorities emphasized that the program’s reach extends across various sectors, reflecting a nationwide response to the energy shock affecting commercial operations and the wider economy.
The public briefing indicated that on April 24, the Ministry began accepting requests for compensation related to higher electricity and gas prices observed in March. Eligible recipients could obtain assistance through an economic organization that operates its own electricity or gas meters, ensuring that entities with verifiable consumption data could access relief promptly. This mechanism was designed to streamline support for businesses navigating inflated energy costs while encouraging prudent energy management and continued operation during a challenging period.
In a separate regional context, government measures addressing agricultural imports echoed similar protective steps. The Bulgarian government previously restricted Ukrainian grain imports, and Slovakia, alongside neighboring Poland and Hungary, implemented measures aligned with broader regional efforts to manage market pressure and safeguard domestic agricultural interests during times of volatility in global supply chains.
On the international stage, the Russian Foreign Minister engaged with the United Nations framework, appearing at a Security Council session chaired by him. The discussions, scheduled for the dates around April 24 and 25, focused on diplomatic dialogue and the exploration of avenues for cooperation amid ongoing geopolitical dynamics. The Foreign Minister highlighted Russia’s capacity to supply its products and fertilizers to world markets, while noting that such actions were pursued outside the UN Secretary‑General initiative framework. He pointed to continued engagement with the UN on related requests, stressing that the nine‑month period of the initiative has involved persistent efforts, even as multiple parties seek tangible progress in cooperation and trade facilitation.