Pellegrini: Slovakia Ready to Respond to Ukrainian Situation
Bratislava, November 28 (TASR) – Slovakia currently doesn’t face any risks of incidents with respect to the Ukraine crisis, although it is prepared to react, Prime Minister Peter Pellegrini (Smer-SD) said after an extraordinary session of the National Security Analytical Centre on Wednesday.
Pellegrini announced that the Centre decided to maintain Slovakia’s threat level two in place and explored various scenarios, particularly efforts of illegal crossing of the Slovak-Ukrainian border.
“I want to guarantee that all forces and state security bodies are ready and in case there’s an escalation of tension, Slovakia will be prepared. We hope a diplomatic solution will be employed, yet it is our duty not to underestimate any risk,” said the Prime Minister.
The Centre also discussed energy security, with Pellegrini conceding in this context that it might be challenging to supply Ukraine sufficiently with reverse gas flow throughout the winter months.
Defence Minister Peter Gajdos (Slovak National Party/SNS nominee) reported that a crisis staff reviewed the situation at night, currently convened under the leadership of Defence Ministry state secretary. The situation in Ukraine is also being continuously assessed by the military intelligence services. Aside from Ukraine, the Centre also dealt with potential security incidents during Christmas holidays and New Year’s Eve celebrations.
Prime Minister Pellegrini also commented on the issue of more stringent sanctions against Russia, reiterating that although Slovakia gravitates towards the view that sanctions fall short in their desired effect, Slovakia will respect an agreement at the EU level.
