Hungary to Help Secure Slovakia’s Gas Supplies
Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico recently spoke out about the issue of gas transit in an interview with television channel TA3. With the non-renewal of Ukraine’s contract with Gazprom, Russian gas supplies to Europe via Ukraine ceased on January 1, leading to concerns about gas reaching Slovakia through the usual route. Fico had previously criticized the Ukrainian side for this decision.
Despite the halt in gas transit through Ukraine, Fico assured that Russia will continue to deliver the gas it is committed to supplying to Slovakia through alternative routes, such as Hungary. He mentioned that the Russian side has confirmed the delivery of 3.5 billion cubic meters of gas and highlighted the presence of the southern gas route and other possibilities for gas delivery.
Fico emphasized the importance of maintaining gas imports from the East to Europe, pointing out that European countries must diversify supply sources and increase energy independence. He also discussed the implications of disrupted agreements between Ukraine and Russia on Slovakia and expressed dissatisfaction with President Zelenskyy’s actions in this regard.
Furthermore, Fico raised concerns about potential attacks on gas pipelines running through Ukraine when not in use, emphasizing the need for security measures. He acknowledged Hungary’s role in regional gas trade, particularly noting the benefits of interconnectors that allow gas transportation in both directions with neighboring countries.
As Nord Stream pipelines have been phased out, Hungary’s strategic position in the European gas trade has been enhanced, especially with the TurkStream pipeline serving as an essential route for Russian gas entering the EU through the Hungarian-Serbian border. The discussions between Fico and his Ukrainian counterpart reflect ongoing challenges and considerations in the gas transit landscape.
