Slovakia’s populist Prime Minister
Robert Fico
Has responded with anger to comments deemed “dis disrespectful” by the EU’s top diplomat, who cautioned European officials not to attend military events in Moscow commemorating the 80th anniversary of the conclusion of WWII.
Renowned for his pro-Russian stance, Fico has consistently pledged to participate in the military parade held in Moscow on May 9th.
Kaja Kallas
Reporters were informed in Luxembourg on Monday following an assembly of EU foreign ministers that “there was significant discussion, and it was explicitly stated by various member countries, that any involvement in the parades or festivities on May 9th in Moscow will be viewed seriously by Europeans, particularly since Russia is currently conducting a large-scale invasion within Europe.”
Ms. Kallas stated, “It was explicitly communicated that we do not wish for any aspiring nation to take part in these celebrations on May 9th in Moscow,” and urged the member countries to dispatch their delegates to the capital city instead.
Kyiv
instead to show solidarity with
Ukraine
.
Mr. Fico stated in an announcement, “On May 9th, I plan to visit Moscow. Mrs. Kallas, allow me to notify you that I serve as the rightful prime minister of Slovakia, a nation with full sovereignty. No one has the authority to dictate my travel plans or restrict my movements.”
Mr. Fico stated that he will go to Moscow to pay tribute to the Red Army soldiers who freed his nation and other Nazi victims.
The Kremlin has utilized the yearly “Victory Day” festivities to showcase its military might, with Vladimir Putin referring to the Russian forces engaged in Ukraine as “heroes” during the previous year’s celebration.
Mr. Fico’s stance on Russia’s invasion of Ukraine contrasts significantly with those of many other European political figures. After leading his left-wing party, Direction-Smer, back into government following an election victory last year, Mr. Fico, who serves as Slovakia’s Prime Minister, adopted a pro-Russian and anti-American position. Following this shift, he halted his nation’s support for military assistance to Ukraine, criticized the EU’s economic penalties against Russia, and committed to opposing Ukraine’s accession to NATO.
In contrast to numerous Western politicians, Mr. Fico hasn’t traveled to Kyiv since Russia’s comprehensive invasion began over three years ago.
His administration has encountered loud objections due to its pro-Russian position and various other policies.
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