In Moscow with Putin: Securing Gas Following Kiev’s Suspension

Putin Vows Retaliation Amidst Gas Transit Tensions with Ukraine

Rome (ANSA) – Following a drone attack by Ukraine that targeted Kazan, Russia—located approximately 1,000 kilometers from the border—Vladimir Putin has vowed to seek vengeance. He is also prioritizing gas supplies to maintain his influence over Europe, evidenced by his recent meeting with Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico at the Kremlin. This meeting comes in the wake of concerns regarding Ukraine’s decision to suspend the transit of Russian gas through its territory.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky stated at the European Council on December 19 that Ukraine “will not extend” the transit agreement with Russia, emphasizing the need to prevent Moscow from profiting further “on our blood and on the skin of Ukrainians.” This sentiment was echoed by Putin during his year-end press conference the following day, confirming that the existing five-year contract would expire on December 31 and would not be renewed.

This decision has drawn concerns from Hungary and Slovakia, both of which rely heavily on Russian gas supplies. Fico, aligning with Viktor Orban, has attributed the lack of a peace agreement to Ukrainian actions and has halted aid to Ukraine since beginning a new term as prime minister a year ago. He has also accepted Putin’s invitation to attend the May ceremonies in Moscow, commemorating the 80th anniversary of victory over Nazism.

On social media, Prime Minister Fico shared that President Putin “confirmed Russia’s willingness to continue supplying gas to the West and Slovakia.” During their extensive discussion, they also touched on the military situation in Ukraine and the potential for a peaceful resolution, as well as aims to improve bilateral relations between Bratislava and Moscow.