Zelensky’s sharp rebuke of Slovakian Prime Minister Robert Fico centers around accusations of “lies and accusations” leveled against Ukraine amidst a dispute over gas supplies. The Ukrainian president directly countered Fico’s portrayal of Ukraine as a “beggar” and “blackmailer,” arguing that the Slovakian PM is the one misleading his own people.
Zelensky pointed to Slovakia’s refusal of Ukrainian assistance during their transition away from Russian gas transit as evidence of Fico’s misrepresentation. He highlighted the warnings from various European nations regarding the dangers of inaction, suggesting Fico is now attempting to deflect blame through public relations maneuvers, falsehoods, and inflammatory accusations.… Continue reading
Poland stands ready to increase electricity exports to Ukraine, should Slovakia cut off its backup power supply as threatened by Prime Minister Robert Fico. This commitment involves boosting Poland’s own energy production to compensate for any resulting Ukrainian energy deficit. Fico’s threat follows escalating tensions surrounding gas transit agreements, with Slovakia seeking an extension and Ukraine refusing Russian gas transit. The situation is further complicated by Fico’s recent controversial visit to Russia.
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Ukraine will cease all transit of Russian gas through its territory by the end of 2024, President Zelenskyy announced. This decision aims to prevent Russia from profiting from the war by disguising its gas as originating from other countries, such as Azerbaijan. While acknowledging potential financial losses for Ukraine and hardship for countries like Slovakia, which heavily relies on Russian gas, Zelenskyy emphasized the imperative of denying Russia further revenue for its war effort. He suggested a conditional exception: allowing transit only if European buyers refuse to pay Russia until the war ends, a scenario unlikely due to contractual obligations. This decision is likely to further strain relations between Ukraine and Slovakia, given the latter’s dependence on Russian gas and skepticism toward further supporting Ukraine.
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Matt Underwood 
John Q. Hosedrinker