**Slovakia Warned of Gas Crisis**
The Slovak Prime Minister, Robert Fico, has warned that the country is facing a gas crisis. This comes as Ukraine refuses to extend an agreement for Russian gas transit.
On December 20, at a meeting with European Union leaders, Fico criticized Ukraine’s position. He said that Ukraine’s refusal was causing a gas crisis and blamed President Zelensky of Ukraine.
Fico also threatened that Slovakia might take “reciprocal measures” if Russia stops sending gas through Ukraine to Slovakia.
Slovakia has a long-term contract with Russian energy giant Gazprom. The country estimates that alternative arrangements could cost an extra €220 million ($228.73 million) in transit fees.
**EU Countries Still Rely on Russian Gas**
This issue highlights how some EU countries, including Slovakia, Hungary, and Austria, still rely heavily on Russian gas despite efforts to diversify their energy sources.
Earlier this year, the EU implemented its first sanctions against Russia’s gas industry, focusing on liquefied natural gas (LNG).
**Russian President Reacts**
Russian President Vladimir Putin also commented on the matter during his annual press conference. He confirmed that the contract would not be extended and expressed confidence in Gazprom’s ability to survive.
“This contract will no longer exist,” Putin said. “We will survive, Gazprom will survive.”
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