Slovakia pledges emergency power to Ukraine amid blackouts due to Russian attacks

Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico has announced Slovakia’s commitment to provide emergency electricity supplies to Ukraine in the event of a blackout, according to Ukrinform.

Russia has been targeting Ukrainian energy infrastructure since 2022, causing nationwide blackouts and scheduled power cuts, which creates civilian hardship, particularly during the winter.

“We want Ukraine to get through the winter with dignity. In case of a blackout, we will provide emergency energy supplies,” Fico stated, as per Ukrinform.

This pledge came during a meeting with Ukrainian Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal in Ukraine.

The Slovak leader also supported Ukraine’s integration into the European Union’s unified energy system. Fico plans to propose a systemic solution at the next European summit to support Ukraine’s energy infrastructure, which has suffered significant damage due to Russian attacks.

“We have a single energy market in the EU, and it’s necessary that it extends to you as well,” Fico remarked.

While Slovakia is preparing additional humanitarian aid for Ukraine, Fico clarified that this package will not include lethal weapons but will focus on bolstering Ukraine’s energy system.

On 16 March 2022, Ukraine’s power grid was synchronized with the European Network of Transmission System Operators for Electricity (ENTSO-E). Subsequently, on 14 December 2023, Ukraine’s national energy company, Ukrenergo, became a full ENTSO-E member.

This integration has been crucial for Ukrainians to maintain electricity access and has enabled commercial electricity exports, contributing to the national budget. According to Ukrinform, electricity imports to Ukraine have surged by over 94% compared to pre-war levels in 2021.

Ukrainian Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal and Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico met in Uzhhorod, Ukraine, on 7 October to discuss energy security, infrastructure projects, and economic cooperation.

They addressed Ukraine’s EU membership aspirations, Zelenskyy’s peace plan, and humanitarian support. Fico urged Ukraine to maintain gas transit beyond 2024, as the existing contract with Gazprom expires soon. Additionally, Fico, who has opposed Ukraine’s NATO membership, emphasized restoring normal relations with Russia post-war.

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