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Putin-Fico meeting:
- Russian President Vladimir Putin met with Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico in the Kremlin.
- Discussions focused on gas transit and international relations as the Russia-Ukraine gas transit contract expires (end of 2024).
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Gas dependence in Slovakia:
- Slovakia is dependent on gas transit through Ukraine.
- Fico criticized Ukrainian President Zelensky for refusing to extend the transfer agreement.
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Slovakia's position:
- Fico has maintained ties with Moscow, opposing military aid to Ukraine and criticizing sanctions on Russia.
- He proposed other solutions where Ukraine will handle the transfer of gas that is not owned by Russia.
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Other European Leaders and Gas Supply:
- Fico is only the third European leader to visit Putin since Russia invaded Ukraine in 2022.
- Hungary receives Russian gas through TurkStream but had previously used the Ukrainian route.
- Moldova, including the separatist Transdniestria enclave, is also dependent on the Ukrainian move but is exploring other options.
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Ukraine situation:
- Ukraine has refused to extend the gas transit agreement, citing ongoing conflict with Russia.
The above is summarized from news sources (Reuters etc.). Fico said before he left for Moscow that he informed EU officials about his trip to meet Putin.
This article was written by Eamonn Sheridan at www.forexlive.com.
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