Slovak Prime Minister Fico has invited Ukrainian President Zelensky to discuss the transit of Russian gas. Fico claims that halting this gas transit causes “significant damage for Slovakia and the European Union,” according to an open letter he wrote.
Since January 1, European countries have ceased receiving Russian gas through a pipeline that runs through Ukrainian territory, as the contract expired on December 31 with no new agreements made. While most European nations have reduced their Russian gas imports, Slovakia has lagged behind due to higher costs from alternative suppliers.
Fico wants the contract to be renewed and previously threatened to cut electricity supplies to Ukraine, drawing criticism from Zelensky. The Ukrainian president questioned if Fico had a personal interest in ignoring the European boycott of Russian gas.
Kyiv refused to renew the contract, as it would enable Russia to fund its war against Ukraine. Zelensky stated that Fico was offered assistance and compensation to find alternatives, which Fico reportedly declined.
Zelensky accused Fico of resorting to lies and accusations to shift the blame. In his open letter, Fico stated he does not want to respond to these remarks to avoid escalating tensions and invited Zelensky for talks in Slovakia.
Zelensky indicated that Fico could visit Kyiv on Friday. Fico visited Russia late last month to discuss extending the gas contract with President Putin.
On Friday, Fico announced that Putin promised to supply gas to Slovakia through alternative routes, such as the southern route via Turkey, though the capacity of these pipelines is limited.
Source: NOS