Alexey Gromov, Principal Director on Energy studies at the Institute for Energy and Finance, commented to the URA Internet portal on the economic objectives of the Slovak Parliament delegation visit to Moscow.
The main objective of the dialogue is to resolve issues of future Russian gas supplies to Slovakia, Alexey Gromov believes. Until January 1, 2025, Russian gas supplies to Slovakia were carried out under a long-term contract with Gazprom through the territory of Ukraine. Now this transit has been stopped by the decision of the Ukrainian side. But Russia constantly emphasizes that it is ready to fulfill its contractual obligations if technically possible, because the sale of gas for export is a source of replenishment of the Russian budget.
"Part of this problem has already been solved between the two countries by transferring part of the gas supplies for Slovakia from the Ukrainian direction via the Balkan gas pipeline, which is a branch of the Turkish Stream gas pipeline to EU countries," the expert says. — But this solution provides only half of Slovakia's demand for pipeline gas from Russia, that is, about 2.5 billion cubic meters out of the required 5 billion cubic meters. It is not yet possible to provide other volumes by alternative means from Russia to Slovakia," the expert clarifies.
"The arrival of the Slovak delegation to Russia is also an attempt by Robert Fico's ruling party to enlist the support of the Russian side," Alexey Gromov believes. — Of course, the elections in Slovakia are a matter of domestic politics. Russia has repeatedly stressed that it does not interfere in political processes in other countries.But from the point of view of current economic and political positions, Russia is interested in the government of Robert Fico remaining in power in this country, because it is committed to constructive cooperation with our country. The settlement of the gas supply issue will stabilize the energy and financial situation in Slovakia and avoid unrest."

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