Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico has expanded his threats against Ukraine over Kyiv's suspension of Russian natural gas transit.

Source: Teraz.sk, citing Fico's words in Brussels after talks with European Commission officials on 9 January, as reported by European Pravda

Details: Fico noted that Slovakia might "suspend any humanitarian aid to Ukraine, decide to significantly reduce or completely cancel benefits for Ukrainian refugees in Slovakia, or stop supplying electricity in emergency situations".

He also stressed that, at the political level, the country could use its veto power over several decisions in the European Union.

However, Fico noted that Slovakia would only take such steps if it had "no other choice".

Fico said that his threats were an opportunity to show how a leader of a sovereign country should behave.

He also announced that a group was being set up immediately to discuss the consequences of stopping Russian gas transit through Ukraine, which would include representatives of Slovakia, the European Commission and Ukraine.

"This is a serious problem, and Energy Commissioner Dan Jørgensen is aware of it," Fico said.

He praised the "constructive negotiations" with the European Commission held on Thursday, 9 January. He stated that the EC is very interested in resolving this problem.

Background:

• The contract between Ukraine and Russia for gas transit to Europe expired at the end of 2024 after the Ukrainian side decided not to renew it.
• Slovakian Prime Minister Robert Fico sharply criticised Kyiv for these actions and wrote a letter to EU leaders expressing dissatisfaction with the Ukrainian side's actions.
• He also threatened to cut off electricity supplies or reduce assistance to refugees from Ukraine in Slovakia in response.

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