Ukrainian President Zelenskyy holds talks with Slovakia's Fico, assuring a retaliation against Russia's energy aggression

Slovakia and Ukraine held a high-level meeting in Uzhhorod, near the Slovak border, where several key issues regarding energy security were discussed. Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy engaged in a constructive dialogue, with both leaders expressing their viewpoints on the ongoing tensions surrounding Russian oil and gas.

Despite most European Union (EU) states reducing their dependence on Russian energy sources following Russia's 2022 invasion, Slovakia and Hungary have chosen to maintain their purchases. This decision, according to Fico, is necessary to protect Slovakia's interests, even as attacks on pipeline infrastructure are perceived as legitimate targets by Ukraine.

Zelenskyy, in response, suggested that Ukraine could potentially supply Slovakia with oil and gas, provided it is not of Russian origin. However, he also emphasised that Ukraine will continue to target Russian energy infrastructure in response to Russia's attacks on its own facilities.

The meeting also saw Fico temporarily blocking the EU's latest sanctions package to seek safeguards against potential economic consequences for Slovakia. This decision was met with criticism from U.S. President Donald Trump, who stated that these purchases continue to finance Moscow's war.

In a bid to support Kyiv in its EU accession talks, Fico offered Slovakia's experience and expertise. He also expressed hope that Ukraine would secure security guarantees, alluding to the ongoing political negotiations between Slovakia, Ukraine, and the EU regarding energy security and sanctions.

Recent Ukrainian strikes on the Druzhba pipeline have caused interruptions in oil supply to Slovakia and Hungary. In response, Gazprom rerouted supplies under a separate long-term deal with Slovakia, with gas deliveries from Slovakia to Ukraine continuing post-2024, albeit with significant imports occurring via Slovakia, Hungary, and Poland.

Russia, under President Putin, exerts pressure by threatening to cut gas supplies. Slovakia plays a crucial role in transit, given its geographical location. With tensions over Russian oil and gas usage remaining high, this meeting marks an important step towards finding a resolution that prioritises energy security for all parties involved.

Ukrainian President Zelenskyy holds talks with Slovakia's Fico, assuring a retaliation against Russia's energy aggression