Slovakia's PM threatens EU summit over gas transit dispute
Robert Fico, the Prime Minister of Slovakia, demanded the restoration of gas transit through Ukraine. He threatened that otherwise, he would block the EU summit on aid for Ukraine.
The Prime Minister of Slovakia, Robert Fico, threatened to block the upcoming European Union summit, scheduled for March 6 in Brussels. This meeting of European leaders is supposed to focus on financial and military aid for Ukraine.
Fico announced that he might block the summit's conclusions if the Union does not support Bratislava's proposal regarding gas transit. "While most EU member states are in favor of continuing the war, Slovakia is in favor of peace", stated the Prime Minister. He also rejected the notion that Ukraine is also fighting for Slovakia, arguing that its actions lead to higher gas prices.
Fico sets demands. He wants the restoration of gas transit through Ukraine
Bratislava wants the final conclusions at the end of the EU summit to include a statement for an immediate ceasefire in Ukraine, regardless of a peace agreement. Fico criticized previous meetings of European leaders as actions in favour of continuing the war and rejected initiatives to arm Ukraine.
"This strategy has not worked so far, and Slovakia will not participate in it," stressed Fico. He also added that he has no objections to the provisions regarding the strengthening of the EU's defence capabilities but believes they should be accompanied by decisions to relax budget discipline and agree to use funds for military-civil projects.
The extraordinary meeting in Brussels will be crucial for the future of EU support for Ukraine. If Robert Fico follows through on his threats, European leaders will have trouble determining the scope of further aid for Kyiv.
