Russian President Vladimir Putin received Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico at the Kremlin on the evening of December 22, marking a significant and unexpected diplomatic engagement between Russia and an EU member state. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov stated that the meeting had been planned several days in advance, but he did not disclose the topics under discussion. Speculation about the agenda suggests that energy issues, particularly Russian natural gas supplies to Slovakia, and other foreign policy matters were likely key points of discussion.

This meeting underscores the complexities of EU-Russia relations, as Fico remains one of the most outspoken critics of Western support for Ukraine within the European Union. His visit to Moscow comes amidst increasing uncertainties about gas transit agreements and heightened tensions over the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.

A central issue likely discussed during the talks is Slovakia’s energy security. The country relies heavily on Russian natural gas, most of which is delivered through the Soviet-era Druzhba (“Friendship”) pipeline. The stability of this energy supply has been thrown into doubt by Ukraine’s announcement that it does not intend to extend its transit agreement with Russia, which expires on December 31, 2024. The agreement’s termination could disrupt the flow of gas not only to Slovakia but also to several other EU nations.

Earlier this month, Fico stated that his government was engaged in “very intense” negotiations on securing gas supplies for 2025 and beyond. He expressed confidence that a solution could be found to maintain gas transit through both Ukrainian and Slovak territories. However, the........

© Blitz