"After January 1, we will assess the situation and possible retaliatory measures regarding Ukraine," stated Fico. "If necessary, we will halt electricity supplies, which Ukraine critically needs during network disruptions."
Slovakia is one of the largest remaining buyers of Russian gas in the EU.
According to Fico, the cessation of supplies will result in additional costs for the European Union for energy resources, while Slovakia will face rising gas prices.
"Who cares about some Slovakia, really, Mr. [President of Ukraine Volodymyr] Zelensky? But when you need something to avoid freezing in winter, you scream," Fico is quoted by the SME portal.
On December 16, Ukrainian Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal warned Fico during a conversation that there would be no transit of Russian gas through Ukrainian territory. "The agreement between Ukraine and Russia on gas transit expires on January 1, 2025, and will not be extended," Shmyhal noted on Telegram. He also mentioned that "over the past week, 30% of electricity imports were from Slovakia."