Robert Fico, the Prime Minister of Slovakia, reiterated the significance of maintaining the gas and oil transit routes through Ukraine. In his latest statement, he addressed the current situation of energy resource supplies and the future of their transit. According to Fico, it is vital for Slovakia that these routes remain operational, despite receiving alternative offers for oil and gas transportation.
Fico pointed out that while Slovakia can purchase gas and oil from other sources, these resources still largely come from Russia, albeit with significantly higher transit costs. „We receive various offers to buy oil from alternative suppliers. The reality, however, is that it is still Russian oil, just at much higher transit fees. Why would we do that?” said the Prime Minister.
The situation regarding transit through Ukraine is complex, as the ongoing conflict and geopolitical factors introduce uncertainty. Fico emphasized the importance for Slovakia that Ukraine continues to serve as a transit country. He elaborated that Ukraine needs a functioning infrastructure to export gas and oil to the West, and thus has a vested interest in keeping these routes open.
„If Ukraine claims to have enough gas not only for itself but also for export, then it requires a viable infrastructure for that export. This applies to oil as well,” added Fico. The Slovak government plans to discuss this issue with the Ukrainian side during a joint meeting scheduled for next week.
In summary.
Prime Minister Robert Fico emphasizes that Slovakia must maintain the gas and oil transit routes through Ukraine. Despite alternative offers concerning raw material supplies, preserving transit through Ukraine remains crucial for Slovakia, given that procurement from other suppliers incurs higher transit fees.
