Zelenskiy Reaffirms Ukraine’s Energy Response to Russian Attacks

(Reuters) – President Volodymyr Zelenskiy stated on Friday that Ukraine would persist in retaliating to Russian strikes on its energy infrastructure, despite criticisms from Slovakia and Hungary, who have faced disruptions in Russian oil supplies due to these actions.

Zelenskiy made his remarks following high-level discussions with Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico in Uzhhorod, near the Slovakia-Ukrainian border. The two leaders have had previous disputes regarding Russian energy supplies.

Both Slovakia and Hungary continue to import Russian gas and oil, unlike other EU nations which largely severed ties post-Russia’s 2022 invasion of Ukraine. While the EU works on improving energy routes, Slovakia and Hungary argue that these alternatives face logistical bottlenecks and higher costs.

Recent Ukrainian assaults on the Druzhba pipeline, critical for oil transport from Russia through Ukraine to Slovakia, have exacerbated supply disruptions.

“We respond to Russia’s attacks on our energy facilities, and will keep doing so,” Zelenskiy declared during a joint press conference with Fico, referencing ongoing Russian aggression against Ukrainian energy assets. “But we genuinely desire an end to this war. However, nobody will just endure in darkness.”

Fico acknowledged that military actions against “legitimate” targets have adversely affected Slovakia. He emphasized the need to consider the interests of other nations within the international energy framework.

Zelenskiy reiterated that Ukraine was open to supplying Slovakia with oil and gas, provided it does not originate from Russia.

Fico had previously criticized Ukraine for not prolonging the transit of Russian gas, as the contract with Russia ends in late 2024. Following this, Gazprom has adjusted its supply routes to Slovakia under an established long-term agreement.

Fico has also strongly opposed an EU initiative aimed at phasing out Russian energy imports and has temporarily stalled the bloc’s recent sanctions package, seeking assurances for Slovakia against potential adverse impacts from such a cutoff.

U.S. President Donald Trump urged European leaders on Thursday to cease purchases of Russian oil, claiming it finances Moscow’s military actions against Ukraine.

On Friday, despite their differences, Fico expressed optimism for cooperation, especially in the energy sector. He hoped Ukraine would secure necessary guarantees and offered Slovakia’s expertise in aiding Ukraine’s negotiations for EU membership.

“Good, friendly neighborly relations, lasting peace, rapid ceasefire, and a European future are our shared aspirations, even if we have divergent viewpoints on certain matters,” Fico concluded.