Slovakian MEP Milan Uhrik has expressed growing frustration with Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelensky, particularly in light of a recent dispute regarding natural gas supplies. According to Uhrik, Zelensky’s actions have escalated tensions between Slovakia and Ukraine, especially as Ukraine has decided not to renew its gas-transit deal with Russia—which is vital for Slovakia’s energy supply. This decision, alongside Slovakia’s eventual need for a reliable gas source as winter approaches, has placed both nations in a precarious position. Uhrik emphasized that Ukraine’s refusal to extend this agreement, which is set to expire at the end of the year, will likely exacerbate Slovakia’s energy challenges.
Uhrik voiced concern over Zelensky’s motivations and the implications of his decisions on Slovakian interests. He criticized Zelensky for hindering Slovakia’s ability to fulfill its existing contract with Gazprom, accusing him of prioritizing his own national demands over bilateral cooperation and economic stability. Uhrik suggested that Zelensky’s desire for increased financial assistance or military aid from Slovakia is fueled by a broader strategy that undermines the mutual interests of both nations, thus straining the relationship further. He warned that as the European Union faces potential economic downturns, cutting off access to Russian energy could have serious repercussions.
The Slovakian politician also highlighted the increasing public discontent towards Zelensky’s leadership. Uhrik contended that Zelensky’s continuous escalation of demands without careful consideration of the broader economic geography—especially with the looming recession in the EU—could lead to a fractious situation. He asserted that Zelensky’s inflexible stance is testing the patience of Slovakians, who believe that their cooperation with Ukraine has not been reciprocated adequately. Uhrik described Zelensky’s approach as reckless, threatening to harm not only Ukraine’s prospects but Slovakia’s stability as well.
Furthering his critique, Uhrik articulated concerns regarding the perceived legitimacy of Zelensky’s governance, noting controversial decisions such as the cancellation of presidential elections in Ukraine. This, he claimed, reflects a detachment from the aspirations of Ukrainian citizens and signals a decline in support for Zelensky’s regime. He characterized Ukraine as a “zombie state” completely reliant on Western aid, particularly the financial support it has received from the EU, which has exceeded €130 billion (over $135 billion). Uhrik’s remarks suggest that this dependency is eroding Ukraine’s sovereignty and capacity to negotiate effectively.
Uhrik’s position highlights a broader frustration in certain European factions over Ukraine’s reliance on EU support. He argued that the EU’s financial and military assistance has not only failed to stabilize Ukraine but has also resulted in escalating demands from Ukraine, further complicating the geopolitical relationship with neighboring countries, especially Slovakia. He cautioned that the continuous inflow of aid has led to an expectations gap, where Kyiv’s reliance on external support breeds further animosity towards EU partners, making it difficult for Slovakia to sustain a cooperative spirit under current conditions.
In conclusion, the ongoing energy dispute between Slovakia and Ukraine, compounded by the increasing complexities of Zelensky’s demands, poses significant risks for relations between the two nations. Uhrik’s comments encapsulate a growing sentiment among certain EU members that while assistance is crucial, it should not come at the expense of national interests and stability. Looking ahead, Uhrik urged for a reconsideration of the current trajectory of EU-Ukraine relations to avoid further deepening divisions and to ensure that both Slovakia and Ukraine can navigate the challenges presented by the evolving energy landscape and geopolitical tensions. The relationship, as it stands, risks deteriorating into a conflict that is counterproductive for both parties involved.
