Slovak Prime Minister Visits Russia As Ukra Gas Pipeline Blocked...Putin "continues to supply gas"

Slovakia, an EU member but classified as pro-Russian, has appealed to Russia for support after Ukraine decided to stop supplying Russian natural gas through its territory to Europe.Slovak Prime Minister Robert

made an urgent visit to Russia on the 22nd local time to meet with Russian President Vladimir Putin to discuss gas supply issues.

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told a briefing that the two leaders discussed the issue of Russian gas supplies to Europe in detail, noting that it is a very complex situation that requires a lot of attention.

After the meeting, Pizzo confirmed Putin was ready to continue supplying gas to the West via Ukraine, but said it would be virtually impossible after January 1 next year given Ukraine's position.

Ukraine has sent about 15 billion cubic meters of Russian natural gas annually to several European countries through gas pipelines that pass through the country, which has decided not to extend the deal, which expires this year.

Slovakia, which receives about 3 billion cubic meters of Russian gas annually through Ukraine, has protested.

Unlike other European countries that cut back on Russian gas imports to sanction Russia, Slovakia says it cannot afford to reject cheap Russian gas imports.

Meanwhile, in Bratislava, the capital of Slovakia, thousands of citizens gathered today (23rd) to express solidarity with Ukraine and hold anti-government protests criticizing Prime Minister Picho's visit to Russia.