Protests erupted in Slovakia as thousands of citizens voiced their opposition to Prime Minister Robert Fico's pro-Russia stance. The demonstrations, which began in Bratislava and spread to various towns and cities, were triggered by Fico's recent visit to Moscow to meet with Russian President Vladimir Putin.
Organizers of the protests, including Lucia Štasselová from the Peace to Ukraine NGO, deemed Fico's meeting with Putin as 'unacceptable.' They criticized the Prime Minister for engaging with Russia while the world condemned Moscow's military aggression, particularly in Ukraine.
The crowd in Bratislava expressed their disapproval by chanting 'We're ashamed of Fico,' highlighting the growing discontent among Slovaks towards their leader's actions.
Fico defended his trip to Moscow by citing Ukraine's decision to halt Russian gas supplies to Europe, which would impact Slovakia's transit fees. Despite assurances of alternative gas sources, Fico warned of potential retaliatory measures, including cutting off electricity supplies to Ukraine and reducing support for Ukrainian refugees.
Former Foreign Minister Rastislav Kácer accused Fico of acting as an 'agent of a foreign power,' further fueling the criticism against the Prime Minister.
Protests were not limited to Slovakia, with rallies also taking place in Prague, Czech Republic, and Krakow, Poland. Demonstrators vowed to continue their opposition to Fico's pro-Russia policies.
Fico's alignment with Russia has put him at odds with the European mainstream. Since returning to power on a pro-Russia and anti-American platform, he has taken steps such as ending military aid to Ukraine and opposing EU sanctions on Russia.
