On Friday, tens of thousands of people in Slovakia gathered in various locations across the country to express their opposition to the pro-Russia policies of Prime Minister Robert Fico. The latest wave of anti-government rallies was sparked by Fico's recent visit to Moscow to meet with Russian President Vladimir Putin, a move that drew criticism given the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
During the protests, demonstrators chanted slogans such as “Slovakia is not Russia, Slovakia is Europe” and “We have enough of Fico,” calling for a change in the country's foreign policy direction. The rallies took place in 28 locations, with participants voicing their discontent with Fico's statements suggesting a possible shift away from the European Union and NATO.
The prime minister's accusations of opposition involvement in a supposed coup plot, based on a report from the country's spy service, were met with skepticism by many. Fico's alignment with Russia has been a point of contention, as he has taken stances that diverge from the European mainstream, including ending military aid for Ukraine and opposing Ukraine's NATO membership.
Despite the heightened tensions and accusations, all anti-government protests have remained peaceful. Organizers from the Peace for Ukraine organization have dismissed Fico's claims as an attempt to instill fear in the population. The opposition has criticized the use of the spy service for political purposes, highlighting the polarizing nature of Fico's leadership in Slovakia.
With 60,000 people attending the protest in Bratislava, the demonstrations are set to continue on February 7. Fico, who survived an assassination attempt in May 2024, faces growing discontent over his government's alignment with Russia and his controversial statements regarding Slovakia's foreign policy.
