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Russia has declared a critical situation with gas transit to Europe through Ukraine. The statement came after Russian President Vladimir Putin met with Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico, Reuters reports.
Ukraine, for its part, has confirmed that it has no plans to extend the five-year transit agreement that expires at the end of this year. Kyiv argues that it does not want to support Russia’s military actions.
Europe’s gas hub is under threat
The issue of gas transit through Ukraine is critical, as this route accounts for almost half of all Russian pipeline gas exports to Europe. In the event of a supply disruption, Slovakia, Italy, Austria and the Czech Republic would be most affected.
Nevertheless, Gazprom continues to supply gas through an alternative route, the Turkish Stream pipeline, which runs under the Black Sea.
Difficult negotiations and an unknown solution
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said he could not disclose the details of the talks between Putin and Fico, which touched not only on gas issues but also on bilateral relations and the war in Ukraine.
After his meeting with Putin, Robert Fico expressed concern about the possible termination of transit. At the same time, he stressed that Russia demonstrates its readiness to supply gas, but it becomes “almost impossible” due to the expiration of the current contract.
Kyiv’s conditions and Europe’s position
President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy said that the extension of the transit agreement is possible only if Russia stops paying for transit until the war ends. However, Moscow has already called this option unacceptable.
European countries, such as Hungary, emphasise the need to preserve the Ukrainian route, although they are actively using the Turkish Stream to obtain gas.
“The situation is very complicated and requires increased attention,” Peskov commented.
Will it be possible to find a compromise?
Last week, Vladimir Putin said that it was unlikely to reach a new agreement with Kyiv given the current realities. Meanwhile, European leaders are looking for ways to minimise the impact of the gas crisis on their economies.
The situation remains tense, and its resolution depends on multilateral diplomatic efforts, which Europe still hopes for.
