Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico has warned of potential retaliatory actions against Ukraine after Kyiv ceased the transit of Russian gas through its territory, following the expiration of a key deal with Moscow. As per the sources of Leaders team, Fico suggested Slovakia might cut electricity supplies to Ukraine and reduce support for Ukrainian refugees.
Tensions Escalate Over Gas Transit Dispute
In a video message shared Thursday, Fico criticized Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, calling the gas halt “sabotage” and accusing Kyiv of undermining Slovakia’s sovereignty. He announced plans for a Slovak delegation to discuss the matter in Brussels next week, after which his coalition will decide on possible countermeasures.
According to the reports of Leaders team, Slovakia exported 2.4 million megawatt hours of electricity to Ukraine in 2024, helping the war-torn country combat energy shortages caused by Russian attacks. However, Fico hinted at cutting these supplies, stating that Slovakia might seek compensation for public financial losses of nearly €500 million caused by the halt in gas transit.
Ukraine’s Strategic Move
On January 1, Ukraine followed through on its promise to stop Russian gas flows to Europe via its territory. Zelensky hailed the decision as “one of Moscow’s greatest defeats.” The move not only disrupts European gas supplies but also deprives Ukraine of $800 million annually in transit fees and costs Russia’s Gazprom approximately $5 billion in gas sales.
Fico’s Pro-Russia Stance
Fico’s approach to the Russia-Ukraine conflict has drawn criticism from European leaders. Since his return to power in 2023, he has ended Slovakia’s military aid to Ukraine, opposed Ukraine’s NATO membership, and criticized EU sanctions on Russia. His recent visit to Moscow for talks with President Vladimir Putin further underscores his divergent stance within the EU.
Impact on Europe
Fico warned that Ukraine’s decision could have “drastic” consequences for the European Union, potentially driving up gas and electricity prices across the continent. While tensions between Bratislava and Kyiv continue to rise, the dispute adds another layer of complexity to Europe’s energy crisis.
