Slovakia might block assist packages for Kiev ought to it not resume transit of Russian fuel, PM Robert Fico says
Bratislava might veto the EU-wide initiatives to help Kiev, in addition to take particular person motion towards it, Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico has stated, warning Ukrainian chief Vladimir Zelensky towards harming the bloc “for political causes.”
The PM issued the risk on Sunday throughout an interview with native ta3 broadcaster whereas talking concerning the ongoing fuel transit row with Kiev. Ukraine opted to terminate the transit of Russian pure fuel to the EU beginning this yr, successfully reducing off the circulate to some EU international locations, together with Austria, Italy, and Slovakia.
“If President Zelensky decides to hurt the entire EU purely for political causes, I converse for the Slovak authorities that when some assist for Ukraine is on the negotiating desk, I’ll veto it,” Fico warned.
Different retaliatory measures towards Kiev might doubtlessly embrace stopping the emergency electrical energy provide to Ukraine, halting humanitarian assist deliveries or reducing advantages acquired by the Ukrainian refugees who reside in Slovakia, Fico acknowledged.
The PM reiterated his allegations towards Kiev, claiming half of the cash despatched to Ukraine is “destined” to get stolen. When requested to elaborate, Fico didn’t present particular particulars, arguing that rampant corruption in Ukraine is widespread information.
Fico has lengthy been a critic of the enduring Western assist to Kiev, arguing that Ukraine can not defeat Russia on the battlefield and will search a diplomatic resolution to the battle as a substitute. Instantly after assuming his place in late 2023, Fico halted navy assist to Ukraine and pledged to veto the nation’s potential accession to the US-led NATO bloc.
The already strained relations between Bratislava and Kiev deteriorated even additional amid the fuel row. Landlocked Slovakia has been closely depending on Russian provide, getting over 50% of its fuel by means of the Ukrainian transit system.
Earlier this week, Fico admitted he has been getting “sick” of Zelensky typically, stating he was not “right here to carry palms” with him. “He roams Europe begging and blackmailing, asking others for cash,” Fico informed the Slovak parliament’s international affairs committee. “This must cease.”
Ukraine has refused to resume the fuel contract below the banner of eliminating Russia’s income. Prime Minister Denis Shmigal confirmed final week that Kiev had no plans of signing one other contract with Moscow.
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