Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico has suggested that a meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy could take place in the coming days. The discussions are expected to focus on resuming natural gas transit through Ukraine to Slovakia, following Fico’s earlier proposal. Zelenskyy, in turn, invited Fico to Kyiv for talks this Friday.
According to iRozhlas the anticipated meeting is set against the backdrop of tensions over Ukraine’s decision not to renew a contract allowing Russian gas to transit through its territory. Fico has accused Zelenskyy of sabotage, claiming the decision will cost Slovakia around €500 million in lost transit fees. He has also warned of potential retaliatory steps, such as halting electricity exports to Ukraine.
Zelenskyy responded by stating that Fico is acting on behalf of Russian leadern Vladimir Putin, suggesting Slovakia is opening a "second energy front" against Ukraine. Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022 continues to strain regional dynamics.
Slovakia, long reliant on Russian gas, is now working to secure alternative supplies. The country’s largest gas supplier, SPP, has assured citizens it is prepared for the halt in Ukrainian transit and can maintain gas deliveries through 2025. However, securing gas from other sources is expected to raise costs due to higher transport fees.
Fico’s ties to Russia remain under scrutiny, particularly with his planned attendance at Moscow’s May 2025 celebrations marking the end of World War II. Whether Fico and Zelenskyy can find common ground in the coming days will likely influence the future of energy cooperation in the region.
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