Slovakia Could Play a Vital Role in Ukraine's Recovery

Ukraine's western neighbor, Slovakia, has not been as vocal as other European countries or the United States in supporting Ukrainian protesters as they ousted their president. Bratislava's condemnation or support for the opposition would have had little effect on the political crisis. However, because Slovakia is an important natural gas transit state, it is likely to play a large role in the West's long-term efforts to help stabilize Ukraine's economy, especially if Russia increases Ukraine's natural gas prices.