Feb 20 • 19:07 UTC 🇸🇰 Slovakia Postoj

Fico at Meeting with Students / Announced Tougher Approach Towards Ukraine and Return to Economic Cooperation with Moscow

Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico has indicated that Slovakia will likely cease electricity supplies to Ukraine in retaliation for a disruption in oil supplies from Russia.

In a recent discussion with high school students held in Nové Mesto nad Váhom, Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico revealed that Slovakia is poised to halt its electricity exports to Ukraine, a move he describes as imminent. This decision stems from a series of tensions linked to a disruption of oil flows through the Druzhba pipeline, following damage inflicted during a Russian missile strike on January 27. This development falls within the context of tightening relationships between Slovakia and Ukraine as Fico advocates for a reassessment of bilateral energy agreements.

Fico elaborated on the ongoing conflictual dynamics, explaining that Slovakia is currently evaluating the situation regarding the oil pipeline, expressing skepticism towards Ukrainian claims of imminent repairs. He suggested that the situation may not be as dire as proposed by Ukraine, hinting at a more favorable outlook on infrastructure repair than previously reported. The Prime Minister's comments were made amidst a broader narrative of shifting Slovak foreign policy toward a more Russia-friendly approach, emphasizing economic collaboration with Moscow.

This strategic pivot raises significant implications for regional energy security and reflects Slovakia's fluctuating stance amidst the ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia. As the Slovak government considers reciprocal measures, there lies a potential for escalating tensions not just energetically but politically, which could also affect alliances within the European Union. The decision's timing suggests a calculated attempt by Fico's administration to balance domestic interests with the broader geopolitical landscape, indicating a complex navigation of nationalism, energy dependency, and foreign relations.

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