Slovakia secures gas flow despite Ukrainian transit halt

Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico announced that Russia will provide Slovakia with natural gas in accordance with the agreement despite transit issues through Ukraine. According to "Hospodářské noviny", Slovakia has fully stocked gas storage facilities and alternative supply routes, which ensure the country is buffered against potential interruptions.

Slovakia is confronting significant challenges related to gas transit following the flow halt through Ukraine. Prime Minister Robert Fico contends that Ukraine’s decision to stop gas transit affects the European Union more than Russia. However, Slovakia's gas storage facilities are fully stocked, giving the country time to adjust to these changes. Fico is also working to maintain gas transit by exploring possible alternatives.

Fico stressed that Slovakia could lose €500 million in transit fees, and Europe could face a shortfall of 13.5 billion cubic metres of gas. This could lead to a rise in gas prices, which are already significantly higher than in the United States, jeopardising the EU's competitiveness. Gazprom clarified Russian threats concerning stopping gas flow through Ukraine as necessary due to Ukraine's failure to renew the transit contract.

Prime Minister Fico and Economy Minister Denisa Saková have spoken with EU Commissioner Dan Jörgensen about gas transit through Ukraine. A special EU-level task force has been established to pressure Ukraine to resume transit. However, Ukraine does not intend to contribute to the group’s efforts. Ukraine decided against renewing the transit agreement, citing a desire to reduce Russian revenues that could fund the ongoing conflict.

Slovakia has alternative sources and routes for its gas supply, such as a pipeline from Germany through Austria or from southern countries via the Southern Corridor. Fico's policy aims to safeguard national interests in light of the shifting geopolitical landscape, rising tensions with Ukraine, and challenges related to EU energy security.

The Slovak government also does not wish to accept gas from the Czech Republic, even though the country has enough reserves and has offered supplies. Slovakia's Economy Minister Denisa Saková warns of a potential bottleneck.

The Czech Ministry of Industry has declared its readiness to ensure long-term gas transmission to Slovakia, not merely in emergencies.

In a letter to Slovakia, the Czech minister emphasized that halting gas transit through Ukraine could disrupt supply stability in parts of the region. The minister assured that the Czech Republic is well-prepared for such a scenario due to strategic investments and dependable infrastructure. Previous measures have enabled the Czech Republic to provide Slovakia with adequate capacity for natural gas transport and storage.