On December 28, 2024, Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico issued a warning to Ukraine, stating that if Kyiv halts gas transit, Slovakia will cut off electricity supplies. This statement follows Ukraine's decision to stop gas deliveries to Slovakia after January 1, 2025, which Fico claims will result in significant financial losses for Slovakia.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky responded to Fico's threats, suggesting they are orders from Russian President Vladimir Putin to open a second energy front against Ukraine. Zelensky criticized Fico for undermining Slovakia's interests in favor of Russian agendas, emphasizing the ongoing challenges Ukraine faces due to Russian attacks on its energy infrastructure.
Fico's comments came during a Facebook address where he discussed his recent diplomatic engagements, including a meeting with Putin. He expressed concerns over Ukraine's political leadership, suggesting that their refusal to negotiate peace is detrimental to both nations and could lead to territorial losses for Ukraine.
Fico proposed Slovakia as a potential mediator for peace negotiations, asserting that his country should play a role in facilitating dialogue. He accused Zelensky of making a politically motivated decision that would harm Slovakia economically, as it relies on gas transit revenues.
The Slovak Prime Minister also highlighted the potential increase in gas prices across Europe due to Ukraine's decision, predicting that it could cost the continent an additional €120 billion over the next two years. He criticized Zelensky's handling of the situation, asserting that it would primarily benefit the United States while harming European economies.
In response, Zelensky reiterated that Ukraine's energy imports are a necessity due to the ongoing Russian occupation of Ukrainian territories and the destruction of its energy facilities. He highlighted the importance of maintaining energy cooperation with European partners to mitigate the impact of Russian aggression.