In a surprising diplomatic move, Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico met with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow, becoming only the third Western leader to engage with Putin since the onset of the full-scale invasion of Ukraine three years ago.
The discussions reportedly centered on Slovakia’s reliance on Russian gas and the looming expiration of a transit agreement with Russian energy giant Gazprom. The deal, which facilitates the transit of Russian gas through Ukraine to Slovakia, is set to end this year.
Controversial Visit Sparks Criticism
Fico, a vocal critic of the European Union’s support for Ukraine in the ongoing conflict, revealed on Facebook that EU leaders had been informed about his visit and its purpose beforehand. However, the move has faced widespread criticism both domestically and internationally.
In Slovakia, opposition leader Michal Simecka of Progressive Slovakia described Fico’s visit as a “disgrace for Slovakia and a betrayal of national interests,” accusing him of advancing Russian propaganda.
The Czech Republic, a NATO and EU ally, also voiced discontent. Czech Foreign Minister Jan Lipavsky criticized Fico’s trip, highlighting his country’s energy independence from Russia and expressing solidarity with Ukrainians enduring hardships caused by the war.
Discussions on Energy and Peace
During his meeting, Fico and Putin discussed mutual relations, the military situation in Ukraine, and the possibility of a peaceful resolution to the conflict. Fico justified the visit by referencing Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky’s recent opposition to Russian gas transit through Ukrainian territory.
The Slovak Prime Minister, who survived an assassination attempt earlier this year, emphasized Slovakia’s need to secure energy supplies while maintaining neighborly relations with Ukraine. Since resuming office in October 2023, Fico has notably ended Slovakia’s military aid to Ukraine but insists on being a “good, friendly neighbor” to Kyiv.
Broader Context of European Security
Fico’s meeting occurred as leaders from Italy, Sweden, Greece, and Finland gathered for a security summit. Finnish Prime Minister Petteri Orpo, reflecting on the discussions, described Russia as a “permanent and dangerous threat” to the EU and called for increased defense spending and continued support for Ukraine.
Divisive Implications
As Slovakia navigates its dependency on Russian energy and its position within the EU, Fico’s actions have amplified debates about the balance between national interests and regional unity amid ongoing geopolitical tensions.
