Slovak President Peter Pellegrini has cancelled a planned visit to Ukraine, citing Kyiv's decision to stop the transit of Russian gas through Ukrainian territory to Europe. This decision, according to Pellegrini, threatens Slovakia's energy security.
"If I have to go there just to take a photo, and they tell me that not a single drop of oil or gas will go to Slovakia, then I really shouldn't go there. Let no one be offended by me... My trip is out of the question for now," the president said in an interview with Slovak television.
Ukraine's decision to stop transit of Russian gas came into effect on January 1, 2025, after the expiration of the five-year contract between Gazprom and Naftogaz. Ukrainian authorities had previously announced their intention to stop transit, citing a desire to reduce dependence on Russian gas and strengthen the country's energy security.
The interruption of Russian gas transit through Ukraine affected several European countries, including Slovakia, Austria and Moldova, which received significant volumes of gas via this route. In response, Slovakia and Austria agreed on alternative supplies, while Hungary will continue to receive Russian gas via the Turkish Stream pipeline.
Hungarian Foreign Minister Peter Szijjarto called Ukraine's decision unacceptable and contrary to its aspirations to join the European Union.
The administration of US President Joe Biden, on the contrary, supported Ukraine's decision to stop the transit of Russian gas to Europe. White House Coordinator for Strategic Communications John Kirby noted that this step demonstrates Ukraine's determination and helps reduce Europe's energy dependence on Russia.
The cessation of Russian gas transit through Ukraine also has economic consequences for both sides. It is estimated that Russia could lose about 5 billion euros annually in lost revenue, and Ukraine could lose about 800 million euros in transit fees.
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