Slovak Gas Dispute Strains Kyiv-Bratislava Relations and Threatens Fico's Government

Ukrainian President Zelensky and Slovak PM Fico clash over Russian gas transit, as Slovakia's coalition faces a no-confidence vote.

Ukraine's refusal to renew a Russian gas transit deal has led to heightened tensions with Slovakia, whose economy relied on transit fees and affordable energy.
Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico has threatened to reduce aid to Ukraine and veto its EU ambitions, blaming Kyiv for economic challenges in Slovakia.
Fico's pro-Russian stance, including a controversial visit to Moscow, has drawn criticism from EU partners and increased domestic opposition pressure.
Ukrainian President Zelensky has emphasized energy independence and rejected deals that would benefit Russia financially during its war against Ukraine.
Slovakia's political crisis deepens as Fico's coalition faces a no-confidence vote, with opposition leader Michal Šimečka advocating stronger ties with Ukraine and Europe.