Slovakia Rejects Being "Hostage" to Ukraine-Russia Tensions

In a recent phone call, Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico asserted that Slovakia will not be a "hostage" to the ongoing tensions between Ukraine and Russia. This statement follows Ukraine's decision to place the Russian energy company Lukoil on a sanctions list, which has resulted in a halt of oil deliveries to Slovakia and Hungary. Both countries announced that they have ceased receiving oil from Lukoil, significantly impacting Slovakia's Slovnaft refinery, owned by Hungary's MOL group. Fico communicated with Ukrainian Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal, emphasizing that Slovakia does not intend to be affected by the geopolitical strife between Ukraine and Russia. The Slovak government reported that Slovnaft will receive 40% less oil than required for processing, which could disrupt local markets and potentially halt diesel supplies destined for Ukraine. Fico's office criticized the sanctions, labeling them as "senseless" and claiming they primarily harm EU member states rather than the Russian Federation. Fico, a long-time opponent of sanctions against Russia, has faced scrutiny for his foreign policy stance, particularly after he resumed office last year and ceased direct military aid to Ukraine. While the European Union has already imposed sanctions on Russian crude oil, Slovakia and a few other nations have been granted exemptions to allow for a smoother transition to alternative energy sources. The situation highlights the complex interplay of energy dependence and geopolitical relations in Central Europe.