Slovak Prime Minister Threatens to Block Loan for Ukraine Over Oil
Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico has stated that his country may join Hungary in blocking a loan for Ukraine amounting to 90 billion euros if oil supplies are not restored. The politician also criticized the actions of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.
Fico described the decision of Bratislava to cease supplying diesel fuel and emergency electricity to Ukraine, as well as Hungary’s actions to block the loan, as a “logical consequence of Zelensky’s unreasonable step” to stop oil supplies. According to him, the loan from the European Union is considered a “gift,” as Ukraine supposedly will not repay these funds.
The Slovak Prime Minister believes that the supply of oil through Ukraine is critical for Slovakia, and its absence causes significant economic losses to the country. Fico plans to discuss all these issues during a meeting in Paris with the President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen. He insists that Zelensky allows an inspection of the pipeline damage site and the possibilities for its repair. However, Fico claims that the pipeline is not damaged, citing satellite images.
Fico stated that his country is ready to support Hungary in blocking the loan if Ukraine does not restore oil supplies. He considers the blocking of funding a “legitimate tool” to bring back supplies. Europe is currently seeking ways to reduce the impact of such blockades and ensure financial flows for Ukraine.
| Country | EU Loan (billion euros) | Status |
| Ukraine | 90 | Blocked |
| Hungary | – | Supports blocking |
| Slovakia | – | May join blocking |
