Fico Requests Zelensky to Restore Oil Transit
Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico sent a letter to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky requesting the resumption of Russian oil transit via the Druzhba pipeline. He called on political parties in Slovakia to support his appeal with signatures. The letter also proposes a joint inspection of the pipeline’s condition involving the European Commission. Fico published the letter on Facebook, and signatures from leaders of the Hlas and SNS parties are already included.
According to Fico, the halt in oil supplies is causing difficulties for Slovakia, although the country is entitled to receive Russian oil under EU sanctions exemptions. He stated that the pipeline is not damaged and suggested an inspection with the European Commission and relevant countries to verify its condition.
Fico emphasized Slovakia’s continued support for humanitarian aid and cooperation with Ukraine. At a post-cabinet press conference, he criticized the opposition, accusing it of supporting the war in Ukraine, and urged political parties to sign the letter backing the initiative. “We want to ensure the pipeline is intact and that transit can safely resume,” he said. He also mentioned an agreement with the European Commission regarding restarting Druzhba operations.
Separately, Fico was advised not to travel to Kyiv for an unusual reason.
