Halting Russian gas transit through Ukraine will impact EU, but not Russia - Slovak PM

Dennik N reported the information.

"The cessation of transit will have serious consequences for all of us in the European Union, but not for the Russian Federation," said Fico.

Earlier, the Slovak prime minister stated that Bratislava would lose "hundreds of millions of euros" in transit fees due to the halt of Russian gas transit through Ukraine. According to him, gas and electricity prices in Europe will rise because of Kyiv's move.

At the same time, in his New Year's speech, Fico expressed his intention to continue an external policy focused on all four corners of the world.

"A policy based on adherence to international law and non-interference in the internal affairs of others. Peace is at the top of our interest pyramid," added the head of the Slovak government.

Gas transit controversy

In October, European Commissioner for Energy Kadri Simson stated that the EU was ready to terminate the contract between Naftogaz and Gazprom for the transit of Russian gas through Ukraine by the end of the year.

In response, Fico announced that Slovakia would hold a series of negotiations to ensure the continued supply of Russian gas through Ukraine after the current transit contract ends.

Meanwhile, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated that Ukraine would not transit Russian gas through its territory to prevent additional revenue for Russia. He also outlined the conditions under which Ukraine would consider gas transit to Europe. Ukrainian Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal announced that Ukraine would halt the transit of Russian gas starting January 1.

On December 27, Robert Fico threatened in a video address that starting from January 1, his country could stop supplying electricity to Ukraine due to the refusal to transit Russian gas.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy responded to his threats, stating that it was likely Putin had instructed Fico to open a second energy front.

On the morning of Wednesday, January 1, Ukraine halted the transit of Russian natural gas through its own gas transportation system.