Ukrainian PM reveals alternative for Russian gas and oil supplies to Slovakia

"We can technically synchronize our systems to protect Slovakia from any risks and create a regional energy hub. I hope we will have the opportunity to discuss this," Svyrydenko said.

Earlier, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated that Kyiv will propose alternative measures for energy support to Slovakia as early as October. According to him, these involve joint solutions that would serve as an alternative to Russian gas and oil.

The head of state emphasized that Ukraine seeks constructive and partnership-based relations with all EU and NATO countries, including Slovakia.

Meeting between Svyrydenko and Fico

On Friday, October 17, consultations between the governments of Ukraine and Slovakia began. During the meeting, Ukrainian Prime Minister Yulia Svyrydenko and Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico discussed a range of important issues concerning bilateral cooperation.

Fico stated that his country is ready to discuss the restoration of Russian gas transit through Ukraine.

At the same time, he unexpectedly expressed support for Ukraine’s aspiration to join the European Union, while clarifying that he does not support Ukraine’s NATO membership.

The Slovak prime minister emphasized that "joint negotiations between the governments of the Slovak Republic and Ukraine yield good results,” and that the very fact of holding these consultations is an important signal for further cooperation.

In addition to energy, the parties discussed the development of the defense industry, Ukraine’s reconstruction, as well as cooperation in agriculture and education.

The negotiations took place in Košice — the second-largest city in Slovakia, located in the east of the country, with a population of about 225,000.