Russian President Vladimir Putin, during a meeting with Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico in China, attempted to frame Russian strikes on Ukraine as a response to Ukrainian attacks on Russian energy infrastructure. Both leaders condemned attacks on the 'Druzhba' oil pipeline, essential for Slovakia and Hungary's oil supplies from Russia. Fico firmly opposed Ukrainian strikes on the pipeline, while Putin suggested that Slovakia and Hungary halt energy supplies to Ukraine to pressure Kyiv.
The main aim of the meeting appeared to be Putin demonstrating 'constructiveness' ahead of expected U.S. decisions regarding pressure on Russia. Putin commented positively on his dialogue with Donald Trump and noted that Ukraine should decide itself how to ensure its own security, also mentioning for the first time potential cooperation with the U.S. and Ukraine on the Zaporizhzhia NPP.
At the same time, Putin again distinguished between Ukraine's possible EU integration (which he would not oppose) and NATO membership (which he categorically opposes). Portnikov recalls how in 2013 the Kremlin pressured Ukraine and Armenia regarding EU association, leading to the Maidan and the start of the war. Therefore, Putin's statements should be viewed skeptically, especially regarding willingness to accept Ukraine’s EU integration.
Portnikov emphasizes that the narrative of reciprocal strikes is misleading, as Russia was attacking Ukrainian infrastructure before Ukrainian strikes on Russian facilities began. Calls for Ukraine to halt attacks will not guarantee its safety; Russian terror continues regardless. Putin’s approach seeks to convince the U.S. to reach a compromise and possibly ease sanctions, leveraging ‘constructive’ rhetoric before possible new decisions from Trump.
