Slovak deputy PM says country is prepared for cessation of Russian gas transit via Ukraine

Slovakia has prepared in advance for the cessation of Russian gas transit through Ukraine from 1 January 2025 and has sufficient gas reserves and alternative supply sources for the coming year.

Source: European Pravda, citing Denisa Saková, Slovak Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Economy 

Details: Saková described the termination of Russian gas transit as a "unilateral step" by Ukraine, which she claimed would harm Slovakia.

Quote: "At the same time, I want to assure all citizens and companies in Slovakia that we are prepared for this scenario and there is currently no risk of a gas shortage in Slovakia."

Saková revealed that Slovakia’s underground storage facilities contain 20% more gas than a year ago. Additionally, the state-owned Slovak gas company SPP has five agreements for gas supplies from other sources.

She added that due to higher costs of alternative supplies compared to Russian gas, the country’s losses will amount to approximately €177 million.

Furthermore, Bratislava will lose "tens of millions of euros" in transit fees for gas transported to third countries.

Background: 

• Slovakia has repeatedly sought to extend the agreement between Ukraine and Russia on Russian gas transit, which is set to expire at the end of 2024.
• Against this backdrop, Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico made a controversial visit to Russia, where he met with Russian leader Vladimir Putin. Fico also threatened to cut off electricity supplies to Ukraine.

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