Slovakia threatens to cut electricity to Ukraine over Russian oil spat

Al JazeeraCenterEN 2 min read 100% complete by Al Jazeera StaffFebruary 21, 2026 at 09:12 PM

AI Summary

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Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico has threatened to cut off electricity supplies to Ukraine if it does not resume pumping Russian oil through the Druzhba pipeline within two days. Oil flows were halted after a reported Russian drone strike in late January 2026. Slovakia and Hungary, both reliant on Russian oil, are demanding Ukraine resume deliveries. Fico accused Ukrainian President Zelenskyy of acting maliciously towards Slovakia, citing previous gas supply disruptions and Slovakia's refusal to participate in a 90 billion euro military loan for Ukraine. Slovakia is a key electricity provider for Ukraine, which has suffered damage to its grid from Russian attacks. The ultimatum highlights tensions between Slovakia and Ukraine amidst ongoing debates over EU financial aid to Ukraine.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Czech Republic 40% SEPS 50% Druzhba pipeline 60% European Union ×260% Hungary ×370% Volodymyr Zelenskyy ×370% Robert Fico ×280% Russia ×680% Slovakia ×690% Ukraine ×1190%

Keywords

ukraine 100% russian oil 90% slovakia 90% electricity supply 80% robert fico 70% energy security 70% druzhba pipeline 70% eu loan 60% russian drone strike 50% volodymyr zelenskyy 50%