Ukrainian PM holds talks with Fico: Ukraine is ready to transit any gas except Russian

Shmyhal emphasized that Ukraine's priority is energy security for all of Europe, particularly regarding gas supplies during the winter period.

The Ukrainian prime minister recalled that, over the past years, significant efforts have been made at the EU-wide level to ensure reliable gas supplies and prevent any type of energy from being used as a weapon.

The head of Ukraine's Cabinet of Ministers added that Ukraine is ready to fulfill its obligations under the EU-Ukraine Association Agreement.

"Therefore, if the European Commission officially appeals to Ukraine regarding the transit of any gas other than Russian gas, we will, of course, discuss it and are ready to implement the relevant agreements based on the principles of energy security — both for the entire EU and for each European nation," Shmyhal stated.

However, he noted that the agreement on the transit of Russian gas through Ukraine expires on January 1, 2025, and it will not be extended.

Shmyhal and Fico also discussed strengthening cooperation in the electricity sector. Over the past week, 30% of electricity imports came from Slovakia.

"We are grateful for this support and ready to expand these opportunities, as it strengthens both our nations — Ukraine's resilience and Slovakia's economy," the Ukrainian prime minister emphasized.

Fico hopes for the continuation of transit

Earlier, Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico announced that a large number of negotiations would take place regarding the extension of Russian gas transit through Ukraine.

In his view, Slovakia may find a "common solution" that would lead to the continuation of Russian gas transit in 2025.