On January 17, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy discussed energy security with Slovakia's opposition leader in Kyiv amid tensions with Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico, who threatened to cut aid to Ukraine due to disagreements over the transit of Russian gas supplies. Fico criticized Kyiv for not extending the gas transit deal, attributing economic damage to Slovakia as a result.
Zelenskiy extended an invitation to Fico to discuss the matter in Kyiv, leading to a meeting with Michal Simecka, the leader of Progressive Slovakia, the country's main opposition party. Zelenskiy highlighted the importance of dialogue for the benefit of both Ukraine and Slovakia, emphasizing the need to strengthen their nations rather than bolster Moscow's stance.
Simecka expressed confidence in Ukraine's willingness to negotiate, urging Fico to engage in discussions. The dispute arose after the expiration of the transit agreement between Kyiv and Moscow, impacting gas prices and transit fees for Slovakia. Fico threatened various measures against Ukraine if the gas transit issue remains unresolved.
In efforts to find a resolution, Fico proposed a meeting with Zelenskiy at the Slovakian-Ukrainian border, but Zelenskiy suggested discussions take place in Kyiv instead. Both leaders are expected to attend the Davos forum in Switzerland in the upcoming week, potentially facilitating further dialogue on the issue.