US EditionThousands in Slovakia gather in renewed protest against pro-Russian policies of Prime Minister Fico
- On Thursday, thousands gathered in Bratislava to demonstrate against Prime Minister Robert Fico's close ties with Russia and his recent meeting with President Vladimir Putin.
- The protest followed Fico's trip to Beijing for a World War II military parade and his repeated calls for normalizing relations with Russia despite the ongoing war in Ukraine.
- Fico, who returned to power in 2023 leading the leftist Smer party, opposed additional EU sanctions until the Commission offers feasible plans that consider Slovakia's automotive sector and heavy industries while addressing electricity price concerns.
- Following discussions with the EU Council’s leader in Slovakia, Prime Minister Robert Fico stated he would oppose any new sanction measures unless they include realistic proposals to address electricity costs.
- The protests and planned rallies by opposition groups such as Progressive Slovakia highlight deep divisions over Slovakia's stance on Russia, EU sanctions, and domestic austerity measures.
25 Articles
25 Articles
Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico is blocking the EU's sanctions against Russia and regularly meets with Putin. Thousands of demonstrators are demanding.
Associated Press News
Thousands in Slovakia gather in renewed protest against pro-Russian policies of Prime Minister Fico
Thousands gathered at the Slovak capital on Thursday to protest a meeting between populist Prime Minister Robert Fico and Russian President Vladimir Putin, in an escalation of previous protests against Fico’s pro-Russia stance. The government’s planned austerity measures also drew condemnation from protesters.
Slovakia wants to approve new EU sanctions against Russia only if Bratislava receives guarantees for its energy supply. Prime Minister Fico speaks of realistic proposals for the domestic car industry.
Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fizzo has said his country will not vote for new sanctions against Russia unless the European Commission puts forward proposals on climate and energy policy.
Slovakia cannot support the European Union's new sanctions against Russia until it receives proposals from the Union that will align climate goals with the needs of car manufacturers and heavy industry, Prime Minister Robert Fico said on Thursday.
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