Zelenskyy Criticizes Slovakia’s PM for Russian Gas Dependency Amid Protests
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has harshly criticized Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico following Fico’s controversial visit to Moscow for talks with President Vladimir Putin. Zelenskyy accused Fico of imperiling European unity and weakening efforts to reduce dependency on Russian gas during a social media post. Fico’s Moscow meeting was notable, as it marked one of the few visits by an EU leader to Russia since the invasion of Ukraine began in February 2022.
The visit was described by Fico as a "working trip" to discuss the international situation and potential peaceful resolutions to the Ukrainian conflict, as well as the continuation of Russian gas supplies to Slovakia. This comes in the wake of Zelenskyy’s announcement that Ukraine would not extend an agreement allowing the flow of Russian gas to Europe, a decision Fico claims would harm the Slovak economy.
Zelenskyy condemned the reliance on Russian gas, asserting that such purchases directly benefit the Kremlin’s war efforts, leading to more Ukrainian casualties. He remarked on how Moscow’s gas discounts for Slovakia could ultimately compromise national security. The Ukrainian president pointed out that Fico has rejected European compensation offers aimed at facilitating a transition away from Russian energy resources.
The backlash against Fico has intensified domestically, leading thousands to protest in Bratislava, branding him a traitor. This wave of dissent is compounded by critiques from opposition leaders, who argue that Fico’s actions undermine Slovakia’s national interests and reinforce Kremlin influence.
As Ukraine confronts military challenges, having lost territory in recent months, the international community remains focused on energy security in the face of Russian aggression.
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