Slovakia Considers Halting Electricity Supplies to Ukraine and Russia at War News | Today's Latest Stories | Reuters”>Ukraine Amid Gas Transit Dispute
In an abrupt turn of events, Slovakia’s Prime Minister Robert Fico has suggested that his country could stop supplying electricity to Ukraine if the transit of Russian gas through Ukrainian territory ceases as planned on January 1, 2023. Fico’s remarks, made via social media, serve as a stark warning amidst the escalating energy crisis.
Fico stated, "After January 1, our government will assess the situation and consider reciprocal measures against Ukraine." Among the options on the table is the potential suspension of electricity supplies to Ukraine, a move that, if enacted, would have significant implications for its neighbor’s energy security.
The Slovak premier’s threat comes amid tense negotiations surrounding the transit of Russian gas via Ukraine to Europe. With the current agreement set to expire at the end of the year, Russia has been pushing for a new deal, while Ukraine has been vocal in its demands for increased transit fees.
In a video statement, Fico expressed concern over the potential impact of the gas transit shutdown on Slovakia’s economy and consumer prices. He took aim at Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, stating, "Who cares about Slovakia, Mr. Zelensky? But when you need something to keep warm this winter, you scream about it."
The statement comes on the heels of Fico’s December trip to Moscow, where he met with Russian President Vladimir Putin. While the details of their talks remain unpublished, it is widely suspected that the gas transit issue topped the agenda.
Following their meeting, Zelensky called for a thorough investigation by Slovak special services into Fico’s actions. Fico, however, has maintained that Zelensky attempted to "bribe" him during their talks, offering to facilitate the transfer of frozen Russian assets held in Europe to Slovakia in exchange for Slovaks backing Ukraine’s bid to join NATO.
The energy dispute between Russia, Ukraine, and Europe has been simmering for years, with periodic flare-ups disrupting supplies to European countries. The upcoming expiration of the current gas transit agreement has raised the stakes, with all parties dug in on their respective positions. As the clock ticks down to January 1, the potential consequences of a breakdown in negotiations loom large, with Slovakia’s threat to cut off electricity supplies to Ukraine adding another layer of complexity to the standoff.
