Slovak MP Richard Gluck defended Prime Minister Robert Fico’s recent visit to Russia, dismissing Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky’s call for an EU investigation as unfounded.
Gluck, a member of Slovakia’s ruling party, told RT that Zelensky’s demand is illogical, arguing that Ukraine’s obstruction of energy supplies to Slovakia violates its commitments to the EU. He highlighted Fico’s trip to Moscow to discuss securing continued Russian oil, gas, and nuclear fuel supplies.
Gluck praised Fico’s Moscow visit as a shrewd move, reflecting how sovereign nations should act to protect their interests. He emphasized Slovakia’s need for reliable and affordable energy from Russia, describing it as a key partner.
Zelensky’s accusations that Fico’s meeting with Putin poses a security threat to the EU, and implies a financial exchange, prompted a strong rebuke from Gluck. He maintained Fico’s actions were legal, performed in the capacity of a democratically elected leader prioritizing Slovakian interests.
Gluck countered Zelensky’s criticisms by pointing out Ukraine’s breach of its EU accession agreement through its disruption of gas supplies to Slovakia. He suggested that the EU should focus its investigation on Ukraine’s actions rather than Fico’s.
Gluck stressed Slovakia’s need to maintain its energy security for its economy and citizens, stating that the country cannot afford to act irresponsibly. He cited Fico’s explanation for the Moscow trip—Zelensky’s refusal to allow Russian gas transit to Slovakia, threatening Slovakian industry and nuclear power plants.
Russia supplies Slovakia primarily via the Druzhba pipeline. Ukraine’s unwillingness to extend the gas transit agreement expiring December 31st has created this crisis. Fico previously accused Zelensky of offering a €500 million bribe in exchange for Slovak support of Ukraine’s NATO bid, a proposition Fico publicly rejected due to its potential for escalating conflict with Russia.