Phone Call Between Slovak Prime Minister and Ukrainian President
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico held a phone conversation on February 27. The primary topic was the transit of Russian oil through Ukraine to Slovak consumers. Fico requested that Zelenskyy clarify the timeline and possibility of resuming these oil shipments.
Fico justified his request by citing existing contracts and an official European Union decision that permits the use of Russian oil until the end of 2027. He argued that blocking the transit is causing economic damage and logistical problems for Slovakia. Fico also stated that Slovak intelligence has confirmed the pipeline is undamaged. Zelenskyy, however, disputed this claim, questioning the pipeline's technical condition. This discussion highlights the tension between upholding sanctions against Russia and maintaining energy security for EU member states.
Proposals for an International Inspection and Their Rejection
The Slovak Prime Minister further mentioned an initiative he discussed with his Hungarian counterpart, Viktor Orbán, to form an international inspection group. This group, comprising experts from the European Commission and EU countries, would have assessed the pipeline's condition on-site. Zelenskyy rejected this proposal, citing a prohibition from Ukrainian special services. Fico noted that even Slovak and EU ambassadors had previously been denied access to similar inspections in Ukraine.
To conclude the call, Zelenskyy proposed a broader meeting to discuss all aspects of bilateral cooperation. Fico agreed and instructed his government to find a suitable date. He expressed a preference for the meeting to be held on the territory of an EU country, rather than in Ukraine.
This conversation underscores the complex energy policy relations between Ukraine and Slovakia and the importance of international agreements in ensuring supply stability. Against the backdrop of the ongoing war in Ukraine and international sanctions on Russia, the issue of oil transit has become increasingly critical for both nations. The prospect of a future meeting may open new avenues for dialogue and compromise in this sensitive area.