Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico has firmly rejected the idea of meeting Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in Kyiv, declaring it “impossible” and not likely to happen. This statement was made by Tibor Gaspar, the deputy speaker of the Slovak parliament, while a Slovak delegation was in Moscow for discussions on gas transit.
Fico’s comments come in the midst of an ongoing diplomatic exchange, with the Slovak Prime Minister having initially extended an invitation to Zelenskyy for talks on the future of Russian gas transit through Ukraine. Fico had suggested a meeting on Slovak soil, near the Ukrainian border. However, in a swift reply, President Zelenskyy agreed to the talks but countered with a request for Fico to visit Kyiv instead.
Gaspar’s recent comments paint a clear picture of Fico’s position, which appears to prioritise Moscow over Kyiv. While the Slovak delegation is in Russia, the visit highlights Slovakia’s delicate balancing act between EU commitments and its relationship with Russia. Fico’s refusal to travel to Kyiv has been seen as a setback for Ukraine, as Slovakia continues to grapple with its energy concerns and dependency on Russian gas.
The Slovak Prime Minister’s decision may also reflect broader geopolitical currents, as Slovakia navigates its role within the EU while attempting to manage its energy needs, particularly regarding the transit of Russian gas through Ukraine. However, the refusal has been widely viewed as a snub by Ukraine, as it signals a reluctance to engage directly with Kyiv, despite the critical importance of energy security and Ukraine’s ongoing battle with Russia.
This diplomatic development comes at a time when Ukraine has been actively seeking European support in its fight against Russian aggression, making Fico’s refusal to engage in Kyiv all the more significant. As European leaders face increasing pressure to support Ukraine, Fico’s stance may alienate Slovakia from its partners in the EU and NATO.
| Event | Details |
|---|---|
| Slovak PM Fico refuses Kyiv invitation | Fico deems it “impossible” to meet Zelenskyy in Kyiv |
| Fico’s initial invitation to Zelenskyy | Proposed talks on Russian gas transit through Ukraine |
| Response from Zelenskyy | Invited Fico to Kyiv instead of meeting in Slovakia |
| Slovak delegation visit to Moscow | Discussions centred around gas transit and energy concerns |
| Geopolitical implications | Slovakia faces balancing act between EU membership and Russian relations |
