Slovakia’s Prime Minister Robert Fico has pledged to re-establish relations with Russia once the conflict in Ukraine comes to an end.
During a press conference on Thursday, Fico stated, “If the war concludes within the [2023-2027] mandate of this government, I will do everything possible to renew our economic and standard relations with Russia.”
Fico also emphasized the importance of Ukraine remaining a transit country for Europe’s fuel needs. He revealed that he has faced “extreme pressure” from the European Commission to cease purchasing gas and oil from Moscow, arguing that sourcing energy from alternative suppliers is unnecessary, as “it is still the same Russian oil, just with higher transit charges.”
Having survived an assassination attempt earlier this year, Fico has consistently advocated for strengthening ties among Russia, the European Union, and Slovakia, and he has notably opposed sending troops to Ukraine.