As of Saturday afternoon, the Slovak premier’s office had not confirmed the claim.
Vučić, who enjoys what he describes as close ties with Fico, stated the meeting would revolve around the question of gas supplies and the agreement on Russian gas transit through Ukraine, which is set to end on January 1, 2025. During the recent EU summit in Brussels, Fico highlighted the potential risk of losing gas imports if Ukraine discontinues transit, warning of a “serious conflict” if Kyiv blocks the flow.
Slovak media have been unable to obtain official comment from Fico’s office regarding the trip. Opposition leader Milan Šimečka of the Progressive Slovakia (PS) party urged Fico to either confirm or deny the planned visit, noting that any solution to the gas transit issue should involve direct talks with Ukraine.
Despite Fico’s attempts to bring the transit issue to the attention of other EU countries at the Brussels summit, he did not secure broader support. After the meeting, the prime minister insisted that any unilateral decision by Ukraine to halt gas deliveries could have significant consequences for Slovakia.
(jh)
Source: PAP