Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico has implemented his threatened countermeasure against Ukraine by halting emergency power supplies to the neighbor. He announced that the Ukrainian side will no longer receive assistance to stabilize its energy grid as of today, citing the lack of Russian crude oil flowing through the Druzhba pipeline into Slovakia. This decision is tied to demands for the resumption of oil transit, which has been disrupted since Russian bombings began in late January.

Fico's harsh measure reflects rising tensions between Slovakia and Ukraine, as the Slovak government believes that Ukraine is intentionally obstructing the return of oil supplies, extending the energy crisis in the region. The Druzhba pipeline is integral to energy deliveries from Russia to Hungary and Slovakia, and the ongoing halt has raised concerns over regional stability. Fico has indicated that the suspension of energy support will remain in place until the oil transit is restored.

This situation underscores the fragile dynamics of energy dependencies in Central Europe, where countries rely heavily on Russian resources while navigating geopolitical conflicts. The decision taken by Fico not only impacts Ukraine's energy situation but also reveals the intricacies of Slovakian foreign policy and its relationship with neighboring countries, especially in the context of the ongoing war in Ukraine and the broader European energy crisis.