Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico Startles Putin in Moscow, Talks About Ukraine Conflict and Gas Supplies

Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico unexpectedly traveled to Moscow to speak with Putin on the conflict in Ukraine and the possibility of peace.

Robert Fico, the prime minister of Slovakia, is the third Western leader to meet Russian President Vladimir Putin since Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine three years ago. Fico made the surprise trip to Moscow to meet with Putin.

Discussions focused on Russian gas supplies to Slovakia, which is significantly dependent on Moscow for energy, according to Fico, a strong opponent of the EU’s backing for Ukraine. At the end of this year, the current agreement with Russian energy giant Gazprom that permits passage through Ukraine will come to an end.

Fico posted on Facebook, “On Friday, top EU officials were informed about my journey and its purpose.”

The visit comes after Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky told European Union leaders that he was against Russian gas pipelines continuing to pass through Ukraine. Slovakia and Hungary, both of which rely significantly on Russian energy, are becoming increasingly concerned about possible supply disruptions, which is reflected in Fico’s journey to Moscow.

According to Fico, he had a “long conversation” with Putin regarding the military situation in Ukraine, their relationship, and the potential for a “quick, peaceful end to the war.”

Fico has questioned EU military support for Ukraine and insisted on preserving friendly ties with Kyiv, even if he stopped Slovakia’s military assistance to Ukraine after taking office again in October 2023.

Fico’s encounter took place during a security summit attended by EU leaders from Finland, Sweden, Italy, and Greece. Petteri Orpo, the prime minister of Finland, called Russia a “permanent and dangerous threat” and underlined the significance of increasing defense budgets and aid for Ukraine.