Slovakia to Increase Russian Gas Imports, Seeks to ‘Standardize Relations’ with Moscow, Fico Tells Putin
Bratislava, Slovakia – Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico informed Russian President Vladimir Putin on October 24 that Slovakia intends to increase imports of Russian natural gas, signaling a shift in energy policy adn a desire to “standardize relations” between the two countries. The move comes despite ongoing European Union efforts to reduce reliance on Russian energy sources following Moscow’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine.the announcement marks a significant departure from the previous Slovak government’s commitment to diversifying energy supplies and aligns Fico’s management with a more pro-Russian stance. While the EU has imposed sanctions on Russia and aims to phase out Russian fossil fuels, loopholes remain, prompting the bloc to consider tighter regulations to prevent circumvention. Slovakia’s decision to increase gas imports directly challenges this effort and raises questions about the country’s commitment to EU energy solidarity.
According to a statement released by the Slovak government, Fico and Putin discussed long-term gas supply contracts during a phone conversation. Fico reportedly emphasized Slovakia’s need for predictable and affordable energy sources, stating that Russian gas remains a crucial component of the country’s energy mix. He also expressed a desire for a return to “normal, constructive relations” with Russia, a sentiment echoed by the Kremlin.
“We need gas, and it is in our interest to have a long-term contract,” Fico said, according to the government statement. “We want to standardize relations with Russia.”
Slovakia currently receives gas from Russia via Ukraine, but volumes have decreased since the start of the war. The TurkStream pipeline, which links Russia with Southeast Europe, is a key route for Russian gas deliveries, and the EU is considering measures to ensure that gas imported through this pipeline does not originate from Russia. Denmark, holding the EU’s rotating presidency, recently circulated a proposal requiring importers to provide proof of origin for gas supplies.
The increased reliance on Russian gas could perhaps expose Slovakia to political pressure from Moscow and complicate its relationship with EU partners. The move also comes as the EU debates stricter rules to block Russian gas after a 2027 ban, as reported by Bloomberg on September 1.
