Slovak Parliamentary Delegation Travels to Moscow, Poland Denies It Access to Its Airspace

According to Tasr, on Sunday, a Slovak parliamentary delegation traveled to Moscow for an official visit aimed at discussing energy cooperation, specifically the potential supply of Russian gas to Slovakia.

The delegation, led by Deputy Speakers of the Slovak Parliament Andrej Danko (SNS party) and Tibor Gašpar (Smer-SD party), includes parliament members Marian Kéry, Ján Mazgut, Richard Glück (all from Smer-SD), and Adam Lučanský (SNS).

The delegation’s flight route was modified to bypass Poland, which denied overflight rights. The revised route passes through Czechia and Germany. Commenting on the situation, Danko stated, “I do not understand Poland’s position, but I accept it as a reality.”

Previously, when the visit was announced, the Ukrainian Embassy in Slovakia issued: “We call for at least basic human compassion and respect for a multi-million nation heroically resisting its aggressors and refusing to surrender despite all challenges.”

According to pre-visit statements by Danko and Gašpar, the delegation plans to meet with representatives of the Russian State Duma and government officials. Discussions will focus on the feasibility of Slovakia receiving Russian gas via Gazprom, despite the suspension of transit through Ukraine.

Gašpar noted that the agenda may also include topics related to the ongoing Russia’s war against Ukraine. Meanwhile, Danko emphasized his intent to gather insights into life in Russia, stating, “I want to show that people live there, and that Germans, French, and Americans conduct business there as well.”

The delegation is scheduled to return to Slovakia on Wednesday, January 15.

Earlier, Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico criticized Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy during a parliamentary session, accusing him of “begging and blackmailing” European nations for support. Fico also discussed Slovakia’s energy strategy, highlighting his recent meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin and describing Russia as a “reliable partner” amidst disputes over gas transit through Ukraine.