
Zelensky Criticizes Slovak PM Fico over Moscow visit and Russian gas dependency
Fico’s Moscow visit sparks outrage
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky openly criticized Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico following his controversial visit to Moscow to meet Russian President Vladimir Putin. The visit, described as a “working trip,” aimed to discuss international issues, the war in Ukraine, and Russian gas supplies to Slovakia. This marked a rare occasion for a European Union leader to meet with Putin since the Russian invasion of Ukraine in February 2022.
Zelensky took to social media, accusing Fico of undermining European unity and aiding Russia’s war efforts by maintaining Slovakia’s reliance on Russian gas. The Ukrainian leader emphasized that such dependence fuels Russia’s economy and enables its continued aggression against Ukraine. “By supporting Russian energy, Fico is not only weakening Europe but directly helping Putin to finance the war that is taking Ukrainian lives,” Zelensky stated.
Slovak domestic backlash
Fico’s Moscow trip has sparked significant domestic backlash in Slovakia. Thousands of protesters gathered in Bratislava, carrying signs labeling Fico a “traitor.” Demonstrators called for his resignation, accusing him of jeopardizing Slovakia’s national interests and aligning with Kremlin propaganda.
Michal Šimečka, leader of Slovakia’s Progressive Party and a key opposition figure, described the visit as a betrayal of Slovakia’s strategic alliances. In a post on X, Šimečka argued that Fico should have prioritized dialogue with Ukraine and Europe instead of pursuing deals with Russia. “By choosing Moscow over European unity, Fico is isolating Slovakia from its allies and diminishing its global standing,” he added.
Energy politics at the forefront
Zelensky’s criticism also touched on the broader issue of European energy independence. During a recent EU summit in Brussels, Zelensky expressed his decision not to renew a five-year agreement allowing Russian gas to transit through Ukraine to Slovakia and other countries. This agreement expires at the end of 2023.
Fico countered that Ukraine’s decision threatens Slovakia’s energy security and economy, prompting him to negotiate directly with Russia for discounted gas supplies. However, Zelensky suggested that such deals come at a cost. He alleged that the Kremlin offers financial incentives in exchange for political influence, claiming that Slovakia’s reliance on Russian gas benefits Putin more than it does the Slovak people.
Challenges on the battlefield
While diplomatic tensions rise, Ukraine faces critical challenges on the battlefield. Russian forces have made significant territorial gains in Donetsk and Kharkiv, regions pivotal to the ongoing conflict. Reports indicate that Russia may soon launch another large-scale offensive, possibly involving North Korean troops.
Despite these challenges, Zelensky continues to urge international allies to maintain unity against Russian aggression. “Every action that strengthens Putin, whether economic or political, undermines our collective fight for democracy and peace,” he said.