Slovakia’s Prime Minister Robert Fico has declared his intent to pressure Ukraine into resuming the transit of Russian natural gas through its pipeline system, despite the apparent lack of tangible leverage over Kyiv. Fico’s stance, coupled with a high-profile visit to Moscow and meetings with Russian President Vladimir Putin, has raised eyebrows across Europe and drawn criticism from neighbouring countries.
A Political Gambit?
Fico’s call for Ukraine to restore Russian gas transit appears more symbolic than practical. Kyiv has made it clear that it will not facilitate any deceptive schemes involving Russian gas, such as attempts by Moscow to disguise it as Azerbaijani supply. With Slovakia being one of the few remaining consumers of Russian gas in Europe, the issue has limited economic scope. Moreover, Slovakia resolved its energy needs before transit through Ukraine ceased, making Fico’s demands largely redundant in practical terms.
Observers suggest that Fico’s actions are primarily political, aimed at showcasing his willingness to engage with Moscow. The Slovak premier’s meeting with Putin marked the first such visit by an EU leader in years where bilateral relations appeared to take precedence over discussions on the Russian-Ukrainian conflict. However, the specifics of their talks remain unclear, with little indication that Fico could influence Ukraine’s stance or alter the dynamics of gas transit.
Parliamentary Delegation Sparks Controversy
Adding to the controversy, a Slovak parliamentary delegation, led by far-right deputy speaker Andrej Danko, also travelled to Moscow. Danko, a key ally in Fico’s coalition, met with members of Russia’s State Duma and Federation Council—institutions deeply complicit in supporting the Kremlin’s war efforts in Ukraine. This visit provoked a strong reaction from neighbouring Poland, which denied the delegation’s aircraft access to its airspace, forcing a longer detour to Russia.
Andrej Danko
These developments highlight a broader trend in Slovakia’s foreign policy under Fico’s leadership, which critics argue is edging closer to Moscow. Danko’s trip and the potential for reciprocal visits by Russian delegations to Bratislava signal a deliberate attempt to normalise relations with a regime widely condemned for its aggression in Ukraine.
Limited Leverage and Regional Implications
Slovakia’s ability to exert pressure on Ukraine is minimal. The suggestion of halting electricity exports to Ukraine holds little weight, as Kyiv can source supplies from other European countries. Furthermore, the broader European energy landscape has shifted significantly, with many countries reducing or eliminating their dependence on Russian gas.
Fico’s focus on gas transit comes against the backdrop of declining Russian gas exports to Europe. Austria, for instance, ceased receiving Russian gas following a legal victory against Gazprom, and Moldova’s breakaway region of Transnistria, which relied on free Russian gas, has faced supply cuts. The volumes of gas that could theoretically transit through Ukraine now serve only Slovakia’s needs—a situation already addressed through alternative arrangements.
Broader European Concerns
Fico’s overtures to Moscow have sparked concern among Slovakia’s European allies. His actions are seen as undermining EU solidarity at a time when member states are striving to present a united front against Russian aggression. Comparisons have been drawn to Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, who also maintains close ties with Moscow. However, Fico’s steps, including Danko’s parliamentary exchanges, go further in creating an appearance of normalised relations with Russia.
