Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico met with Russian President Vladimir Putin in a rare visit by an EU leader to the Kremlin since the 2022 invasion of Ukraine.

Their talks focused on international issues and natural gas supplies, as Slovakia faces potential disruptions when the current transit deal through Ukraine expires this year.

Fico, known for his pro-Russia stance, has ended Slovakia’s military aid to Ukraine, criticized EU sanctions on Moscow, and opposed Ukraine’s NATO membership, CNN has reported.

His visit follows a pattern set by Hungary’s Viktor Orbán, highlighting divisions within the EU over relations with Russia.

Written by B.C. Begley