As per reports, Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico faced criticism after his surprise visit to Moscow for talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin on Sunday (22 December), making him the third EU leader to meet Putin since the Russian invasion of Ukraine.

• The Kremlin stated that the two leaders discussed the international situation and Russian natural gas deliveries, with a focus on Slovakia’s gas supply. Prime Minister Fico expressed concerns about Ukraine’s refusal to renew a natural gas transit deal with Russia set to expire at the end of the year.
• Protests were reported in Slovakia’s capital, Bratislava on Monday (23 December), following the meeting. Demonstrators voiced opposition to Prime Minister Fico’s stance, with signs calling his actions treason and showing support for Ukraine.
• Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy criticized Prime Minister Fico for not seeking alternatives to Russian gas, labeling his actions big security issue for Europe. Zelenskyy questioned the financial incentives behind Fico’s energy policy.
• Ukraine’s foreign ministry condemned Fico’s energy policy, describing it as a threat to the whole of Europe. The Czech government also expressed disapproval, highlighting its own efforts to reduce dependence on Russian energy.